The following is an opinion piece Delegates Kathy Szeliga and Ryan Nawrocki.

Maryland’s newest budget is done, and as your Delegates, we’re upset about the historic tax increases. With $1.6 billion in new taxes and fees, this plan feels like a dark cloud over Baltimore County families, workers, and businesses. We’re very disappointed and want to give you a simple, straight look at what’s coming out of your pockets. This isn’t what we wanted, and it’s hitting close to home in ways that keep us worried.

Let’s break down the numbers because they show what’s really happening. The state is reaching into all kinds of places to grab cash. Income taxes are being raised to pull in an additional $344 million from your paychecks. Capital gains? They’re adding a $367 million extra charge, a big take from anyone who’s made a good investment. New service taxes are spreading out into previously untaxed territory, including a $482 million tax on data and IT services, $39 million from a higher cannabis tax, and even a $9 million tax on vending machine snacks. They’re cutting tax breaks on advertising and coins or bullion for $21 million and raising the sports wagering tax to bring in $32 million. The local income tax cap was increased, too, meaning the counties can tax income more if they’d like. It’s a long list, and it’s hard to see it touch so many parts of everyday life.

Transportation is another area of particular concern. Vehicle title fees are increasing, bringing in an additional $104 million in taxes. The excise tax on cars is rising by $92 million more in taxes. Registration fees are increasing, adding $52 million. The emissions testing fees are doubling to pull in $31 million more, while a new $5 tire fee will be added to each new tire you purchase. They’re limiting who can access historic tags for another $4 million, dropping short-term registration discounts for an additional $3 million, and hiking the rental car tax by $46 million. If you drive—or even rent a car—this puts a big dent in your wallet, and it’s a hard climb for anyone just trying to make ends meet.

That total of $1.674 billion comes straight from you. It’s from your wages, car costs, and even the money you use for a quick snack at a vending machine. We’ve talked to people all over our district, including parents, retirees, and small business owners who feel crushed by this, and we feel it, too. It’s not just numbers; it’s real stress on real folks, hitting when so many are already stretched thin. We wanted Annapolis to ease up, not pile on more. Instead, we’re watching this pressure spread across our neighborhoods.

Governor Moore says this keeps Maryland going. We disagree entirely, so we voted against the budget and every tax and fee increase. The money Gov. Moore is taking should stay with you, helping your family, building your savings, or keeping our local shops open. Annapolis doesn’t have a revenue problem; it has a spending problem, and we did nothing to address that.

As your Delegates, we’re here to keep you informed. This budget’s set, but we’re still listening. How’s this affecting you? What’s on your mind as these changes kick in? Tell us—your words and stories push us forward as we get ready for what’s next in Annapolis. We don’t like seeing you stuck with this burden, but rest assured, we’re still fighting for you every step of the way.

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