Annapolis, MD – Governor Wes Moore announced a bold government modernization initiative aimed at saving taxpayers money and improving the efficiency of state operations. The initiative, unveiled during a cabinet meeting in Calvert County, is part of the Moore-Miller Administration’s broader effort to address Maryland’s structural budget deficit and enhance public services.
Prior to the meeting, Governor Moore signed an executive order directing all state agencies to collaborate with the Governor’s Office of Performance Improvement to review data, streamline operations, and eliminate redundancies. The initiative focuses on smarter, data-driven decision-making to tackle operational inefficiencies while ensuring Marylanders receive better services.
“In partnership, we are making government more effective and tackling challenges that have gone overlooked for years,” Governor Moore said. “This new initiative will cut waste, save taxpayers money, and help us make Maryland the most efficient state in the country.”
Addressing Maryland’s Budget Crisis
Maryland is currently experiencing its worst budget crisis in two decades, surpassing even the challenges of the Great Recession. Despite a temporary financial boost from federal COVID funding, the state continues to face a structural deficit that requires sustainable, long-term solutions.
The modernization initiative, formally codified by the executive order, will prioritize cost-saving measures across state agencies. Initial efforts will focus on mission-support functions, such as procurement, information technology, real estate, and fleet management.
Governor Moore’s forthcoming FY 2026 budget proposal includes $50 million in savings through these modernization efforts, with expectations of greater savings as the program expands in the years ahead. These savings will not only help address the structural deficit but will also allow for reinvestment in key State Plan priorities.
Leadership and Collaboration
The Governor’s Office of Performance Improvement will lead the initiative, working closely with the Department of Budget and Management, the Department of General Services, and the Department of Information Technology. Elisabeth Sachs, a 15-year veteran of Maryland state government, will serve as director of government modernization. She will collaborate with Chief Performance Officer Asma Mirza, who emphasized the importance of a data-driven approach.
“From my first day on the job, Governor Moore emphasized the importance of following the data and delivering results for Marylanders,” Mirza said. “By looking closer at our operational data, we will be able to be better stewards of taxpayer dollars while making sure state employees have what they need to do their jobs.”
The administration’s data-driven, “heart-led” approach has already been a defining feature of Moore’s tenure. By formally integrating these principles into everyday government operations, the initiative aims to achieve both fiscal responsibility and operational excellence.
Next Steps
The Moore-Miller Administration plans to release its full proposed FY 2026 budget next Wednesday, January 15. This budget will outline additional strategies for achieving cost savings, modernizing government operations, and addressing the structural deficit.
Governor Moore reaffirmed his commitment to making Maryland a national leader in efficiency and innovation. “Our work isn’t just about saving money; it’s about investing in the future of Maryland and ensuring that every dollar we spend works harder for the people of our state,” he said.
