Eastern Shore lawmakers voiced sharp criticism over the recently concluded Maryland legislative session during a post-session luncheon held Thursday, highlighting deep concerns over the state's newly passed budget and controversial legislation impacting local control over solar energy projects.
Delegates and senators from the region expressed frustration over a $63 billion budget that closes a projected $3.3 billion deficit through $2 billion in cuts and $1.6 billion in tax and fee increases. Members of the Eastern Shore delegation said the plan sets the state on an unsustainable financial path.
"I'm worried," said Del. Chris Adams, R-District 37B. "We see a freight train coming—not this year, but in the years forward. If we don't solve our spending problems now, we will certainly have to deal with them with austerity in the years moving forward."
Over the winter, lawmakers were inundated with complaints from constituents about rising energy costs. While legislators agreed that more energy production is needed, at least one suggested solar and wind initiatives alone won’t solve the state’s energy challenges, and said she sensed progress from the General Assembly.
"I believe it was significant that you have our leadership in the Maryland General Assembly recognizing that we have to look at nuclear and natural gas," said Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, R-District 38.
Adding to local concerns, a new bill passed this session grants the state authority to approve solar farms and energy storage sites, overriding potential objections from county governments. Delegates said the measure limits the input of agricultural stakeholders and diminishes local control.
"What an offensive act to pass that piece of legislation this year the way that we did, with no input from agriculture that would have been constructive—not destructive—to the effort," Adams said.
The delegation also discussed efforts to develop the Shore’s aerospace industry, particularly in connection with NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility. But lawmakers expressed skepticism about whether the state would prioritize support for regional economic development.
"I believe that when we talk about aerospace, I'd like to continue to build on what the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce is doing with NASA Wallops and build out these other partnerships," Carozza said.
The luncheon also included a show of support for Del. Sheree Sample-Hughes, D-District 37A, who has recently clashed with Democratic leaders over what she sees as a disregard for the needs of the Eastern Shore. She received applause from attendees when that issue was mentioned.
The annual event underscored growing tensions between rural lawmakers and state leadership, as questions persist about how Maryland’s future policies will reflect the priorities of more remote regions like the Eastern Shore.