On April 27, 2010 Northrop Grumman, one of the largest defense contractors in the world, decided to relocate its headquarters to Virginia. For the past year, the governments of Maryland, Washington, DC and Virginia wooed the large company, offering incentives, tax credits and even subsidies to land their high-paying brain trust. Our great state offered a large one-time giveaway – a package totaling $22 million. However, in the end, NG settled on a site in northern Virginia.
The message was clear: Maryland is not attractive for new businesses and the jobs that come with them. We cannot compete with surrounding states when it comes to economic development. Gov. O’Malley’s policies have created a toxic environment for businesses to grow and thrive. The non-partisan Tax Foundation ranks Maryland as the 5th LEAST business friendly state in the union – we are in the same league as the failing states of New York and California.
Compared to our neighbors, we have some of the highest taxes that directly affect businesses. In 2007, Gov. O’Malley raised the sales, corporate and income taxes. Add that to an $8.3 billion budget deficit, and Maryland becomes an after-thought for businesses and entrepreneurs thinking about investing in our great state.
We have one of the best educated and highly-trained work forces in the world. Our unemployment level is at near-record highs. Marylanders are ready and willing to work – unfortunately our leaders, and the policies they enact, hinder us from bringing new jobs to meet our needs. If we don’t act now, Northrop Grumman will be one in a long string of disappointments.
Have your voice heard today! Pre-register for a “Get Maryland Moving Again” town hall meeting. Sign our November Is Coming petition to let the politicians know you are watching. Get educated and get active with AFP!