Gov. O'Malley Focuses On Job Creation In State Of The State Address
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- Governor Martin O'Malley delivered his State of the State address Wednesday.
Political reporter Pat Warren was there for the ceremonial look at Maryland's status.
Inching into economic recovery, the governor is about the business of getting people back to work.
"Job creation must be our top priority always," O'Malley said.
Maryland ranks ninth in the pace of job recovery.
"While we're recovering jobs faster than any other state in our region, there are far too many moms and dads in Maryland who are out of work, who are still searching for work," O'Malley said.
Transportation projects will put people to work, but it will also cost.
One proposal adopts a backdoor approach with a 3 percent increase on gas tax for wholesalers who then pass on the cost to motorists.
"I'm sure it's something I could live with if the money is used for appropriate purposes," one Maryland resident said.
The proposal also allows the city and counties to impose a hike of 5 cents a gallon to pay for local roads and buses.
"There is another important thing that we can do this year that would also create jobs," O'Malley said. "That is offshore wind."
It appears the state is moving forward on offshore wind energy. And in the area of public safety, more restrictive gun control: a ban on all assault weapons, a magazine capacity limited to 10 rounds and licensing with restrictions on possession of guns and ammunition.
"I believe fervently in our constitution. What I do not believe in is this: the right to own weapons which should only be used in the military," he said.
And the State to State is all about quality of life.
Republicans in the House and Senate are not only criticizing the O'Malley's policies, they are also saying he is acting more like a presidential candidate than the state governor.
To view Gov. O'Malley's complete prepared remarks, click here.
Gov. O'Malley is asking the General Assembly to repeal the death penalty this session.
