Gov. Hogan: June 2nd primary election to be held by mail, other additional actions announced

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Governor Larry Hogan held a press conference Friday afternoon to announce additional steps being taken by the state during the coronavirus pandemic.

Maryland’s primary election, which was rescheduled from April 28th to June 2nd, will be held primarily by mail. Hogan says there will be some polling places available for those who are unable to vote by mail, but those who are able to vote by mail are strongly urged to do so.

Comptroller Peter Franchot announced that the state is projecting a potential revenue loss of $2.8 billion for fiscal year 2020. As a result, Hogan announced an immediate budget freeze on all state spending, across all agencies. In addition, a state hiring freeze is in place, effective immediately. The Maryland Department of Budget and Management will make recommendations for budget cuts across all state agencies going forward.

Hogan says that the state will be tapping into and spending most, possibly all, of the Rainy Day Fund balance. “Responding to this crisis will likely create a multi-year budget issue which will require further substantial budget reduction actions,” Hogan said.

Addressing the current issues with unemployment claims across the state, Hogan called the current process “completely unacceptable”, and directed the Maryland Department of Labor to use every resource at their disposal. They are ensuring that all unemployed Marylanders, no matter how or when they file, will get the help they need and receive every single penny they are entitled to as quickly as possible.

The governor also announced the launch of a new registry for those who have recovered from COVID-19, called COVID Connect. “Each of the recovered coronavirus patients in Maryland has a story to tell and a role to play in our efforts to save lives and slow the spread of this virus,” Hogan said. To become part of this new registry, recovered patients should visit the COVID Connect website.

At the end, Hogan announced that he has declared the Easter Bunny an essential employee, ensuring kids statewide that he will be hopping across the state this weekend to deliver candy.