Citing a spirit of partnership and cooperation between his Administration, the Legislature, State Treasurer Richard N. Dixon and Comptroller Louis L. Goldstein, the Governor began his address by highlighting much of the state's progress over the past two years. Our workforce is well educated. Our average family income ranks fourth in the nation. Our economy is growing. There are now 2.7 million jobs in this state, more than ever before in the history of Maryland.
Unemployment is at a six-year low.
Nearly 51,000 Marylanders have moved off the welfare rolls, a 22 percent decline. And we remain at the forefront of leadership in the nation with our Triple-A bond rating. To enable Maryland families to thrive in the 21st century, the Governor said it is essential to build on those achievements through programs, policies, and budgetary initiatives that focus on education, smart growth and neighborhood conservation, job growth, public safety, and protecting the future of Maryland's children. Education is the ticket to a good life, and it is our responsibility to give our young people the best sendoff we can provide. This means ensuring all students have the same opportunities to learn regardless of where they live.