The Annapolis Capital reports on the primary lingering question with the current proposed state budget — the $389 million in federal assistance that is used to balance the FY 2011 State budget.

As referenced by guest speakers and MACo staff at recent meetings of the MACo Legislative Committee, if these funds are not available, then additional reductions to the proposed budget will be required to reconcile the spending plan for the coming year. NACo has been advocating for action on legislation to provide the F-MAP extension, and Maryland officials have encouraged the State’s Congressional delegation to fight for these funds as well.