2026 Legislative Priorities & Anticipated Critical Issues

 Our top priorities for the 2026 Legislative Session include:

• Business Taxes — Tax policies that promote business creation and retention generate critical economic opportunities for all Marylanders. As Maryland addresses future budget deficits, the Maryland Chamber stands ready to work with the legislature and administration to achieve solutions that prioritize economic growth, responsible government spending and job creation. Policies that promote business creation and retention expand Maryland’s tax base and ensure sustainable revenue streams that support vital public services. We urge Governor Moore and the General Assembly to develop well-balanced fiscal strategies that promote economic stability and foster job creation without disproportionately impacting Maryland’s business community. Tax policies that reduce Maryland’s competitiveness with surrounding states constrain economic opportunities for all Marylanders and risk long-term fiscal challenges for the State. Policymakers must carefully consider the trade-offs between generating new revenue and enhancing Maryland’s economic competitiveness.

• Transportation Funding Solutions — As Maryland continues to incentivize electric vehicle adoption and the use of fuel-efficient vehicles grows, it is imperative the General Assembly take steps to address the sustainability of the Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) and its reliance on the gas tax as a key funding source. The TTF serves as Maryland’s primary source of funding for infrastructure and transportation needs. Enhanced and sustainable long-term funding solutions are essential to support Maryland’s economy and ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods. The Maryland Chamber looks forward to being a collaborative partner in discussions with the legislature and administration to identify solutions that secure Maryland’s transportation future.

• Business-Driven Data Privacy & AI — The Maryland Chamber supports the development of a regulatory framework that addresses both data privacy and artificial intelligence in a manner that balances innovation with consumer protection. Maryland’s current data privacy law, passed in 2024, contains inconsistencies and compliance challenges compared to other states. It is crucial to address issues with the current law to provide businesses with clarity and reduce the burden of navigating a patchwork of regulations. Additionally, as AI continues to evolve, policymakers and business leaders must collaborate to ensure a flexible and balanced regulatory approach that fosters innovation while safeguarding privacy and ensuring ethical use and fair competition. Such an approach will enable Maryland businesses to harness the potential of AI while maintaining consumer trust and market integrity.

• Climate Tax Policies & Energy Reliability — The Maryland Chamber advocates for a balanced approach to achieving the state’s climate goals that fosters economic growth. As Maryland strives to meet the ambitious goals established under the Climate Solutions Now Act, it is imperative that we pursue strategies that do not impose undue financial burdens on our businesses and consumers. Proposed measures to raise revenue to pay for climate mitigation threaten to introduce over $1 billion in additional taxes annually, undermining the state’s economic stability amid growing budget deficits and slow economic growth. The Maryland Chamber of Commerce urges policymakers to prioritize cost-effective solutions that enhance grid reliability, embrace an all-of-the-above energy strategy that advances the development of a diversified and inclusive energy portfolio and foster innovation.

• Job Creation & Workforce Development — The Maryland Chamber supports legislation and budget initiatives that create jobs and expand economic opportunity for every Marylander. Policies that incentivize job creation and workforce development generate growth and economic mobility. Expanding apprenticeship ratios, improving access to childcare, and investing in programs that directly connect Marylanders with job opportunities create direct pipelines to success for Maryland’s businesses and workers. The Maryland Chamber of Commerce will continue to support legislative and budget initiatives in the 2026 session that create jobs and promote workforce development for all Marylanders.