Maryland, Iowa Legislatures Face Budget Shortfalls as Sessions Conclude

The Maryland General Assembly concluded its 2025 session, adopting a budget that includes over $2.5 billion in cuts and $1.6 billion in taxes, which Governor Wes Moore claims will benefit middle-class residents, though Republicans criticize the tax burden on families. The session faced significant fiscal challenges, including a $3.3 billion structural deficit, prompting lawmakers to adopt a mix of revenue increases and fund transfers to balance the budget. Meanwhile, the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) advocated for local funding tools and against unfunded mandates that could push financial burdens onto residents and businesses. In Iowa, discussions around the state budget are ongoing, with legislators grappling with a projected $900 million shortfall against proposed spending of $9.4 billion. Iowa House Speaker Pat Grassley highlighted the process of establishing budget priorities despite this fiscal gap, while Senate Minority Leader Janice Weiner warned against excessive spending beyond revenues. Both states demonstrate the complexities of managing state budgets amid economic uncertainties.