ANNAPOLIS, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball released the following statement regarding Governor Wes Moore’s first “State of the State” Address:
Today, my friend and Brother Governor Wes Moore delivered his first State of the State Address. It is befitting that he delivers his address today, as the first Black Maryland Governor and on the first day of Black History Month. During his speech, Governor Moore emphasized the importance of service in every field and every endeavor. Whether you serve as an educator, contractual worker, a business, or a non-profit, we will continue to serve together. That is how we will ensure access to the best services and quality of life for all. Over these next four years, I’m excited to move forward together to ensure every person has the best opportunity to live, work, play, grow, and grow older.
Maryland is at a critical juncture, and we know that there are many challenges ahead that we must address. I’m heartened that Governor Moore is making historic investments to support bold solutions. These investments and solutions emphasize public service at its finest.
We are so grateful to have a world-class education system in Howard County, and am thrilled with his record $8.8 billion investment in K-12 education for Maryland Public Schools. His support for education is reinforced with a record $393 million for our local community colleges, and more than $420 million to support our historically black colleges and universities. I look forward to our continued partnership in ensuring our students and educators have the best teaching and learning environment for all.
I am also thankful for Governor Moore’s commitment to ending child poverty by permanently extending the enhanced Earned Income Tax Credit, and expanding the Child Tax Credit to combat child poverty in Maryland. I am confident that by also raising the minimum wage in the State, as proposed by Governor Moore, that we can uplift our most vulnerable in our community to ensure they can live their best life possible.