The Maryland General Assembly voted to override Governor Larry Hogan’s veto of HB 1000/SB 524 – Building Lifelong Library Learners Act. MACo supports this bill, as it boosts funding for county library capital projects, accelerates increases to the library funding formula, and provides incentives for minors to continue the use of library resources.

On the final day allotted for his decision regarding legislation passed by the General Assembly during last year’s abbreviated session, Governor Hogan vetoed the bill, citing budget weaknesses arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.

From the MACo Testimony:

Maryland’s counties share funding responsibility with the State for our libraries and support additional resources for them. County governments direct well over $300 million of their operating budget general funds each year to supporting libraries.

Counties are proud to support libraries, which have become an integral facet to a county’s ability to build community. SB 524 offers welcome State support to help further their aims. Already, libraries provide a safe place for our children to spend time after school and they offer early literacy programs for young children. They also provide internet access to the public and support for job-seekers and small business owners.

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