FROM THE DESK OF THE COMPTROLLER

First 100 days

It's traditional for many elected officials to review accomplishments and actions taken by them during the first 100 days in office. I would like to take this opportunity to review what has happened since my taking office, January 20.

First, I have the highest praise for the Governor and the General Assembly for their work during the 2007 legislative session and, especially, the climate of cooperation across the aisle to benefit Marylanders.

However, I am disappointed that that more was not done to address the state's $1.5 billion structural deficit. Recent news that sales tax revenue is on the decline and other signs that there is a general softening of the economy means we are facing a fiscal crisis that must be addressed.

At the same time, I am proud of the accomplishments of the Comptroller's Office, both on our own and in partnership with the governor and General Assembly. This included closing corporate real estate tax loopholes and increasing tax enforcement. I also am proud to have strongly supported legislation on health care and the environment.

Other highlights that I would like to point out include supporting the state's minority business contracting program and the Darfur Divestment legislation. I led the fight for public safety legislation that banned Alcohol Without Liquid Machines and required new "fire-safe" cigarettes. I continued working as a fiscal watchdog on the Board of Public Works in taking actions which have saved the state $40 million, as well as protected state employees' prescription drug contract.

I will continue to highlight such major initiatives as resolving the fiscal problems we face, so that we can make progress on education, health care, the environment and other issues of importance to working families. Since taking office, I have been very focused on settling into my new role while, at the same time, promoting a fiscally prudent, socially responsible agenda. This I will continue to do.