Maryland Governor Wes Moore has announced a series of cost-cutting measures to address a $121 million personnel budget shortfall for the fiscal year 2026, which begins July 1. These measures include a statewide hiring freeze, voluntary employee buyouts, and the elimination of vacant positions within the executive branch. The hiring freeze may extend for up to a year, although some state agencies retain discretion in certain hiring decisions. The voluntary buyout program offers eligible state employees a lump sum payment of $20,000 plus $300 for each year of service, with applications accepted until August 4. These actions come amid what Moore described as "historic fiscal challenges," partly attributed to federal government spending cuts under the Trump administration. The budget shortfall and personnel reductions have drawn reactions from Maryland legislators, with some Republican senators criticizing the timing and approach of the buyout program. Additionally, Maryland is providing support to former federal workers affected by mass layoffs, including offering a one-time $700 loan and prioritizing them for Montgomery County jobs. The announcement follows other recent state government changes, including the resignation of Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld effective August 1.