Overview
- Bureau of Labor Statistics data released Jan. 7 show Maryland shed an estimated 24,900 federal jobs from January through November 2025, the largest decline of any state.
- About 10,300 federal positions were lost in October and November, the first months reflecting Oct. 1 “Fork in the Road” deferred resignations, with the October shutdown also disrupting work.
- Maryland’s unemployment rate rose from 3.8% in September to 4.2% in November, as BLS also estimated a two‑month private‑sector decline of 4,400 jobs alongside health care gains of roughly 1,400.
- Federal employment remains a pillar of Maryland’s economy, with more than $150 billion in federal‑directed dollars annually, about 6% of state jobs and roughly 10% of total wages, according to state figures.
- State leaders criticized the administration’s cuts and said assistance is expanding for displaced workers, including job placement services, unemployment insurance, emergency loans, job fairs and specialized resources.