Maryland lawmakers continued a special session in Annapolis on Wednesday as Governor Wes Moore and Democratic leaders moved to address a projected budget shortfall and reverse federal funding cuts affecting the state. The session opened Monday.

Moore called the special session to respond to reductions in federal support and protect state programs. Democratic leaders in the General Assembly, including Senate President Bill Ferguson and House Speaker Adrienne Jones, backed the emergency measures.

The legislation under consideration aimed to shore up funding for health care, education, and social services threatened by federal cuts. Republican legislators in Annapolis criticized the timing and cost of the session, arguing that structural spending reductions should take priority over new appropriations.

The outcome carries significant implications for Maryland residents and for Moore, who is widely viewed as a potential national Democratic figure. The governor has framed the session as a defense of state services against decisions made in Washington.

Moore's office said the administration would continue pressing lawmakers to finalize measures before the session concludes, warning that delay could deepen fiscal strain on state agencies.