Counties Struggle as State Cuts Aid | Annapolis News

Annapolis News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 14, 2026 · 1m

Maryland counties are drowning in budget woes as the state slashes aid and shifts more costs their way—especially for education—leaving them with few options but to wait and hope the state fixes its own fiscal mess without making things worse. With state income tax payments becoming less predictable and mandates like the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future adding pressure, county leaders are furious they’re stuck footing the bill. They’re pushing for a flexible “toolbox” of solutions—from raising the sales tax or taxing services to giving counties power to levy their own taxes—to help each area…