FROM THE DESK OF THE COMPTROLLER

Let me start by thanking all my staff for their hard work and dedication during the busiest part of the tax season. Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the entire Agency, we were able to collect $4.2 billion in individual income taxes so far this filing season, an increase of over 5 percent from the same time last year. This revenue will be instrumental in funding our state's education programs, healthcare initiatives, school construction plans and many other top priority areas that impact our daily lives.

During these tough financial times, it's also a pleasure to be able to give something back to hard working Marylander's. Thanks to a statewide campaign to spread the word about the Earned Income Tax Credit, more than 14-thousand Marylanders took advantage of the program and the numbers continue to grow. I encourage every Marylander to seek out licensed, qualified tax preparers to help them take advantage of every legal tax credit program out there. Let me also remind you that all year long every one of my branch offices offers free tax assistance and preparation services. Do not miss out on any deduction or credit you qualify for by not asking for help or seeking assistance.

In addition to giving back extra tax dollars, this office has been instrumental in locating thousands of Marylander's who have laid claim to our unclaimed property. So far this year, the unclaimed property division has given out more than $60 million in cash, auctions, stock sales, accounts and exchange agreements.

I am extremely satisfied with success of the 2008 legislative session. Most of my top legislative priorities, including approval and funding for an innovative new tax compliance program, the repeal of the computer services tax, the passing of the Maryland Tax Preparers Act, crucial corporate income tax reform, and legislation providing critical rights to domestic partners all passed through the General Assembly this year.

I commend the Governor and the General Assembly for their hard work during the 2008 legislative session. I am disappointed though that the move to ban electronic gaming devices across the state has failed. These cash-only operations are ripe for criminal activity and widespread tax evasion. Fortunately, this November Marylanders will have the chance to have their voices heard once and for all on the subject of expanded gambling in the state.

As we move forward, let me remind you that my door is always open and that the 1,100 public servants here in the Comptroller's Office are ready and eager to assist you in any way possible. Thank you again for the privilege of serving you as your Comptroller.