Updates From Galen Clagett

Limit the Special Session's Agenda - Letter to the Editor by Delegate Clagett - Frederick News Post - September 13, 2011

In approximately six weeks the Maryland General Assembly will meet in a special session to perform its constitutional duty to reapportion the state for congressional districts. The reapportionment is necessary so congressional districts reflect the new population data from the 2010 Census. During the special session it is important the state legislature not waiver from its task to approve a reapportionment plan. The Maryland legislature should not consider any new taxes or major policy initiatives.

During the past several legislative sessions, the General Assembly has put in place a conservative spending plan that recognizes the tough fiscal times the state faces by supporting the state's education and transportation system. The legislature needs to continue to hold the line on taxes so our working families will have enough funds necessary to maintain a household. Our businesses need to hold on to their money as they continue to recover from the long-term national recession.

Through these tough economic conditions, the state's sound fiscal policy continues to maintain a AAA bond rating -- one of only eight states that has this rating in 2011. The AAA rating results in the state paying millions of dollars in reduced interest rates for capital projects like public school road construction.

In addition, the legislature addressed the structural deficit and pension reform during the 2011 legislative session. The structural deficit was reduced by 46 percent and is on target to be completely eliminated within the next two years. Also, this year it cut over 650 vacant positions in state service, which saved $27 million. Because of the state Rainy Day Fund (5 percent of the budget, or $642 million), the $123 million cash balance this year, and the $400 million revenue increases, our state enjoys more than $1 billion in cash reserves.

The General Assembly has an obligation to meet for reapportionment, but expanding the agenda to include new taxes and policy initiatives should not be considered.

GALEN CLAGETT

District 3A, Maryland House of Delegates