WASHINGTON — Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan announced cuts in fees that he says will save Marylanders a total of $51 million over a period of five years, and he says there’s more to come.
“We haven’t even been here for eight months, and we’re just getting started,” he told reporters in a news conference in the State House in Annapolis Tuesday.
Hogan says he plans to cut 100 fees across state government because they “don’t make sense.”
Among the reductions in fees:
- A $10 reduction in fees to correct the title on a car or truck at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
- A $65 reduction in the annual licensing fee for veterinarians.
- The elimination or reduction of business fees associated with licensing of contractors who handle asbestos.
Hogan had already announced a reduction in EZ Pass fees. He says services to residents and businesses won’t be interrupted, but the cuts will have a direct impact on Marylanders.
“There are many other taxes and fees that are in statute that we would like to cut — but on those we will need the legislature to step up,” Hogan said.
He explained that the reductions and cuts he announced Tuesday won’t need legislative approval.
Hogan’s mantra of cutting the cost of government was repeated at Tuesday’s news conference.
“For too long, the status quo in Maryland has been government serving government. I believe government exists to serve the people,” he said.
Hogan, a Republican, told reporters that he was elected largely on the promise to cut government costs and make the state more business friendly.
WTOP’s Kate Ryan and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
