On February 19, Legislative Director Kevin Kinnally testified before the Budget and Taxation Committee in support of SB 388 – Economic Development – Delivering Economic Competitiveness and Advancing Development Efforts (DECADE) Act with amendments.

This bill continues the State’s efforts to modernize Maryland’s economic development strategy and strengthen its competitive position in key industries.

The DECADE Act builds on collaboration between the Maryland Department of Commerce, the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO), and local economic development leaders to strengthen key incentive programs and enhance the State’s competitive position. Counties support these goals while urging amendments to ensure regional flexibility, structured local consultation, and alignment with the diverse economic realities across Maryland’s communities.

From MACo Testimony:

As the State advances its economic development strategy, counties urge continued recognition that Maryland’s regions are not one-size-fits-all economies. Strategies that strengthen one area may not produce the same results elsewhere, and a diversified approach that reflects regional strengths, workforce realities, infrastructure capacity, and existing industry clusters will better position the State for long-term resilience.

SB 388’s cross-file, HB 898, was heard on February 24 in the Ways and Means Committee. Kevin Kinnally testified in support of this bill with amendments.

More on MACo’s Advocacy: 

• Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2026 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database
• Learn more about MACo’s 2026 Legislative Initiatives
• Read more General Assembly News on MACo’s Conduit Street blog