As Maryland lawmakers grapple with a projected $3 billion budget deficit, negotiations around the new budget framework have intensified. A tentative agreement could generate over $1 billion in new revenue through various tax measures, including proposed taxes on services. However, this has incited significant backlash from taxpayers who rally against these proposed tax hikes. While Democrats have reached a tentative deal involving cuts and some tax increases, top Republican officials have suggested that Democrats may tailor the sales tax bill to target IT and data services specifically. Maryland Governor Wes Moore has stated he will not support a broad business service tax and confirmed that plans for a sugary drink tax are off the table. Amid the ongoing discussions, the Maryland Freedom Caucus is organizing a tax revolt rally, reflecting deep divisions in public opinion over the budgetary decisions. The General Assembly continues to seek a consensus as they aim to finalize the budget framework amid these contentious negotiations.