The 426th General Session was marked by tough decisions and controversy. The Legislature grappled with hot-button issues like the death penalty and illegal immigration all while trying to pass a balanced budget. The budget process was made harder in March after it was revealed that the state’s revenues were down more than expected and legislators faced an additional $500 million shortfall. In the end, a $13.8 billion operating budget was passed.

The following is a summary of the results of the year’s preservation agenda:

Budget Items: (click on links to connect to fact sheets or websites for more information)

Heritage Tax Credit:

Legislation Introduced: Governor O’Malley has proposed legislation to reestablish the Historic Tax Credit as a true credit and provide up to $100 million in credits over a five year period.

Legislation Status: The amended HB309 died in the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee on the last day of the session

Governor’s Proposed Budget: $14.7 million to be included only if the new legislation did not pass

Received: $7.7 million

§         Smart, Green and Growing – Local Government Planning – Planning Visions

Legislation Introduced: This legislation expands and updates the “Planning Visions” the represent the pillars of Maryland land use policy to address the value of the preservation of historical and cultural resources.

Legislation Status: Passed by Senate Education Health and Environmental Affairs Committee on April 4, 2009

• Main Street Maryland

Budget Request: Level funding of $7 million for Community Legacy and $5 million for Neighborhood Business Works

Received: $4.5 for Community Legacy and $3.1 million for Neighborhood Business Works

• Maryland Heritage Area:

Budget Request: Level funding for Maryland Heritage Area Grant: $3 million

Received: $ 3 million

• Maryland Higher Education Commission:

Budget Request: Restore funding to IMPART (Institute for Museum, Preservation, and Archaeology Research and Training) at FY2008 levels: $200,000 to continue support for fellowships and internships in museum, archaeology and preservation programs

Received: $0

• Maryland Historical Trust Grant Programs:

Budget Request: Level funding for Museum Assistance Grant: $1 million

Received: $224,862 and $250,000 for Women’s Heritage Museum

Budget Request: Level funding for Capital Grant program: $700,000

Received: $0

Budget Request: Increased funding for Non-Capital Grant: $600,000

Received: $282,138