“We’re going to have to find a way to fix the structure and not just the symptoms.”

-Senator Steve Hershey, Fox 45 Morning News

Sen. Hershey on Priorities Heading into 2026 Legislative Session

Baltimore, MD.:

Today, Senator Steve Hershey joined Fox 45 Morning News to discuss key priorities as the Maryland General Assembly prepares for the 2026 legislative session. In the interview, Minority Leader Senator Hershey addressed concerns about the state’s ongoing budget challenges and the need for long-term structural solutions.

Watch the full Fox 45 Morning News interview below as Senator Hershey discusses fiscal accountability, long-term budget solutions, and the priorities ahead in the 2026 session.

During the conversation, Senator Hershey highlighted the significant budget shortfall Maryland continues to face, noting that despite raising substantial revenue last year, the state remains in a similar fiscal position. He emphasized that the General Assembly must look beyond short-term fixes and focus on structural improvements to the state budget.

Senator Hershey also discussed the financial impact of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, projecting that when the Blueprint is fully funded, Maryland could face an additional $3.5 billion to $4 billion in commitments over the next several years. He stressed the importance of accountability and transparency in how taxpayer dollars are being invested to ensure better outcomes for Marylanders.

In addition, the Senator acknowledged concerns from constituents about the rising cost of living, including increases in vehicle registration fees and energy costs. He affirmed his commitment to opposing both tax and fee increases that further strain working families.