In Maryland, Governor Larry Hogan has signed off on a $1.6 billion budget that includes significant tax and fee increases. The budget, passed by the Democratic-controlled General Assembly, aims to address a budget shortfall exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The tax and fee increases included in the budget cover a wide range of areas, from tobacco and alcohol taxes to increased fees for services such as marriage licenses and hunting permits. The budget also increases the state’s sales tax on digital products and services, impacting online purchases and streaming services.
Governor Hogan, a Republican, expressed his disappointment with the budget, stating that it places a heavy burden on Maryland residents and businesses already struggling due to the economic impacts of the pandemic. However, he ultimately signed the budget in order to avoid a government shutdown.
Democratic lawmakers defended the tax and fee increases as necessary to maintain essential services and programs in the state. They argued that the budget strikes a balance between addressing the budget shortfall and protecting vital services for Maryland residents.
The $1.6 billion budget is likely to have a significant impact on Maryland residents and businesses, as they navigate the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic. The tax and fee increases will affect a wide range of goods and services, potentially impacting the cost of living for many Maryland residents.
Overall, the budget reflects the challenges faced by states in balancing budgets during times of economic uncertainty, and the difficult decisions that must be made to ensure essential services are maintained.
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