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HB 953

Revenue Stabilization Account - Transfer of Funds - State Disaster Recovery Fund

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Buckel and 1 co-sponsor

HB 953 transfers Maryland's emergency reserve funds to boost disaster recovery resources, trading fiscal cushion protection for enhanced immediate disaster response capacity.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 450
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Bill Summary · HB 953

Legislative bill overview

HB 953 would transfer funds from Maryland's Revenue Stabilization Account (the state's "rainy day fund") to the State Disaster Recovery Fund. This measure appears designed to bolster resources available for disaster response and recovery operations by tapping into the state's financial reserves.

Why is this important

Disaster recovery funding directly affects how quickly and effectively Maryland can respond to emergencies like hurricanes, floods, or other catastrophic events. The bill represents a policy choice about whether to use accumulated reserves for immediate disaster needs versus maintaining them for economic downturns or future emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Reserve depletion concerns: Transferring from the stabilization account reduces the buffer protecting the state budget during recessions or fiscal crises, potentially forcing difficult budget cuts if an economic downturn coincides with a disaster
  • Prioritization debate: The bill implicitly argues disaster recovery funding is more urgent than maintaining fiscal reserves, which some may dispute depending on current fund balances and disaster frequency
  • Accountability questions: The bill lacks context about whether existing disaster recovery funds are adequate, whether this is a one-time transfer or ongoing mechanism, and what specific disasters or recovery gaps prompted the proposal

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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