Maryland

What Are the Budget Issues Facing Maryland?

In 2009, Maryland faces a $1.5 billion budget gap representing 10.0% of the general fund. In 2010, Maryland is looking at an even greater $1.9 billion shortfall, 12.5% of the general fund.

What the Federal Stimulus Proposal Will Mean for Children in Maryland

The economic stimulus recently passed by the United States Congress and signed into law by the Obama Administration will provide significant investment in the health, education, and safety of America’s children over the next two years. It also provides significant support to their parents and grandparents. Highlights include:

• $1,630,000,000 in relief for Maryland’s Medicaid costs. Medicaid provides health care coverage for low-income children and seniors.
• $719,700,000 in relief to the state of Maryland to prevent cuts to programs for school-aged children.
• $178,500,000 for the Title I academic achievement of the disadvantaged program.
• $202,900,000 services to children with disabilities in Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding.
• $38,100,000 for other education programs in Maryland’s schools.
• $219,000,000 in food stamps for 412,000 Maryland men, women, and children.
• $22,700,000 in emergency shelter grants for 3,400 households.
• 169,000 Maryland children will benefit from the child tax credit provisions of the legislation.
• $24,040,406 in Emergency Child Care and Development Block Grant funds to provide child care to 3,520 Maryland children.
• An increase in unemployment benefits to 241,873 Maryland families.
• $16,600,000 in additional child support enforcement matching funds.
• $11,700,000 in youth training employment services.

How Have Maryland’s Senators Have Voted on Important Children’s Legislation in 2009?
Barbara Mikulski (D)

Ben Cardin (D)

Sources: State Budget Information, Stimulus Information