Annapolis, MD, January 9, 2026
Governor Wes Moore has unveiled a historic budget proposal, allocating $124.1 million for law enforcement in Maryland’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget. This initiative aims to enhance community safety and support law enforcement agencies amidst a backdrop of significant reductions in violent crime. Notable achievements include a 25% drop in homicides and a 28% decline in non-fatal shootings. The proposal also emphasizes strategic support for community resilience, aiming to foster a safer Maryland and promote economic growth.
Governor Moore Proposes Record Funding for Law Enforcement in Maryland
New budget emphasizes community safety amid significant crime reduction
ANNAPOLIS, MD — In a significant push for public safety, Governor Wes Moore has proposed a record $124.1 million in funding for law enforcement through Maryland’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget. This proposal, administered via the State Aid for Police Protection Program, highlights the administration’s dedication to enhancing safety in communities across the state while celebrating notable decreases in violent crime.
The budget proposal arrives on the heels of promising violence reduction statistics, showcasing Maryland’s commitment to fostering safer neighborhoods. With support for law enforcement agencies and a focus on community resilience, this initiative is poised to create a safer and more vibrant Maryland that encourages small-business innovation and economic growth.
Decline in Violent Crime
Preliminary data from 2025 reveals that Maryland has seen a remarkable 25% decrease in homicides, a 28% reduction in non-fatal shootings, and a 25% drop in robberies compared to 2024. Notably, these figures indicate that homicide rates are at their lowest point in nearly four decades. Since January 2023, the Moore-Miller Administration has successfully reduced homicides by 44% statewide, including a powerful 58% decrease in Baltimore City and a 39% decline in Prince George’s County. Non-fatal shootings have also dropped significantly, with the state experiencing a 40% reduction.
Strategic Approach to Public Safety
Governor Moore’s approach to public safety centers around three key pillars:
- Providing resources and support to law enforcement agencies.
- Building stronger, more vibrant communities.
- Coordinating across all levels of government to enhance safety.
To bolster law enforcement capabilities, the administration has reinstated full investment in the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center, enabling improved data sharing and coordination among federal, state, and local agencies, including the reintegration of Baltimore City.
Community Initiatives
Alongside enhanced law enforcement funding, the Moore-Miller Administration has initiated several community-focused programs. The ENOUGH program is set to provide grants to 28 communities aimed at addressing the root causes of poverty and crime. Furthermore, the THRIVE Academy will deliver intervention and rehabilitation services to at-risk youth, promoting a proactive approach to reducing violence.
Budget Proposal Details
Governor Moore’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2027 includes:
- $124.1 million for law enforcement through the State Aid for Police Protection Program.
- $11 million to launch the Academic Excellence Program, which will support literacy and math coaches in public schools.
- $480.5 million in state funding for school construction, which includes $80 million for the Supplemental Capital Grant Program to address overcrowding in fast-growing counties.
This budget proposal will be introduced to the Maryland General Assembly when the 2026 legislative session begins on January 14. It requires approval from both the State Senate and House prior to being signed into law by the governor.
Background
Throughout his administration, Governor Moore has made public safety and community well-being top priorities. Earlier budgets have already significantly increased funding for local law enforcement and established various initiatives focused on reducing crime and enhancing community engagement. A strong foundation of support for law enforcement paves the way for unlocking potential economic growth and stability in Maryland’s regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the proposed funding amount for law enforcement in Maryland’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget?
- The proposed funding amount is $124.1 million, administered through the State Aid for Police Protection Program.
- How much has homicide decreased in Maryland since Governor Moore took office?
- Since taking office in January 2023, homicides have decreased by 44% statewide, including a 58% decrease in Baltimore City and a 39% decrease in Prince George’s County.
- What are the three key pillars of Governor Moore’s public safety strategy?
- The three key pillars are:
- Providing resources and support to law enforcement agencies.
- Building stronger, more vibrant communities.
- Coordinating across all levels of government to enhance safety.
- What community-focused programs has the Moore-Miller Administration launched?
- The administration has launched programs such as the ENOUGH program, providing grants to 28 communities to address the root causes of poverty and crime, and the THRIVE Academy, offering intervention and rehabilitation services to youth at risk of gun violence.
- When will the proposed budget be presented to the Maryland General Assembly?
- The proposed budget will be presented once the 2026 legislative session begins on January 14. It requires approval from both the State Senate and House before being signed into law by the governor.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposed Funding Amount | $124.1 million for law enforcement in Fiscal Year 2027. |
| Decline in Homicides | 44% decrease statewide since January 2023; 58% decrease in Baltimore City; 39% decrease in Prince George’s County. |
| Public Safety Strategy Pillars | 1. Support for law enforcement agencies. 2. Building stronger communities. 3. Coordination across government levels. |
| Community Programs | ENOUGH program and THRIVE Academy to address root causes of crime and support at-risk youth. |
| Budget Presentation Date | January 14, 2026, at the start of the legislative session. |
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