Workforce development and job creation
The Maryland Chamber of Commerce has identified workforce development as a top legislative priority for 2026, seeking state investment in programs that connect workers to jobs and help businesses find skilled employees. Governor Moore's agenda also emphasizes growing wages and creating jobs across the state as a kitchen-table economic priority, with the state competing for new business investment against neighboring states.
How should Maryland invest in workforce development and job creation?
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Sources
Maryland Chamber of Commerce — https://www.mdchamber.org/2025/12/09/2026-legislative-priorities-and-critical-issues
The Maryland Chamber of Commerce will continue to support legislative and budget initiatives in the 2026 session that create jobs and promote workforce development for all Marylanders.
Governor Wes Moore — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-olLrrWYubQ
We're going to focus on kitchen table issues, work wages, and wealth... we're going to attract new businesses to the state of Maryland.
Office of Governor Wes Moore — https://governor.maryland.gov/priorities/session-results
We are removing barriers to investment, supporting proven programs, and aligning economic development tools for maximum impact.
Positions on this issue · liberal → conservative
- Significantly increase public investment in job training, apprenticeships, and union-linked workforce programs.
- Expand state-funded workforce development partnerships with community colleges and targeted industries.
- Balance public investment in workforce programs with incentives for businesses to train workers on the job.
- Prioritize business tax incentives and deregulation to let the private sector drive job creation and training.
- Limit government workforce programs — private employers should fund their own training without state subsidies.