Maryland will enter the 2026 legislative session next week facing mounting economic pressure, with high taxes, rising costs and policy uncertainty driving residents, income and business growth to other states. Recent data shows significant population loss, a sharp slowdown in net new businesses, and low survival rates for startups, limiting job creation and opportunity. Business leaders argue that competitiveness depends on tax reform, regulatory predictability, affordable energy and housing policies, and fiscal discipline that does not treat employers as a revenue source. Lawmakers’ decisions during this 90-day session are framed as pivotal to reversing current trends and restoring long-term growth, investment and confidence in Maryland’s economy.
