Overview

• The voluntary separation program opened July 10 and runs through August 4 for eligible state workers with at least two years of service.
• Participants are offered a $20,000 lump sum plus $300 per year of service, six months of continued health coverage and payment for unused leave.
• The initiative aims to cut over $120 million in personnel expenses as part of efforts to balance the fiscal 2026 budget.
• A statewide hiring freeze remains in effect with exemptions for public safety and corrections roles and formal elimination of vacant positions.
• AFSCME Maryland Council 3 and Senate Republicans have raised concerns that the measures could impair service delivery or fail to solve long-term fiscal challenges.