Hayes Named Chair of Maryland Senate Finance Committee

Antonio Hayes has been named chair of the Maryland Senate Finance Committee, a move that places a West Baltimore native at the head of the General Assembly’s most influential legislative body. The appointment makes him the third African American to lead the committee in Maryland history and the first Baltimore City lawmaker to hold the position since 2002.

The Finance Committee controls legislation regarding healthcare, insurance, workers’ rights, economic development, and consumer protection. Hayes stated that he will focus on making healthcare more affordable, improving access to prescription drugs, and developing the state workforce. He noted that the committee’s decisions affect nearly every aspect of life for Marylanders, from medical costs to business tools.

Hayes said the role is a responsibility to Baltimore City and families across the state. He pointed to his personal history in West Baltimore, where he was raised by his grandmother and later served as her caregiver after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. He said those experiences shaped his view of the financial and emotional strains that patients and their families face.

The senator brings four years of prior experience on the House Health and Government Operations Committee to the chairmanship. He began serving in the Maryland Senate in 2019 after spending four years in the House of Delegates. His district, the 40th, covers part of Baltimore City.

Hayes assumes the role while the federal government pursues changes to healthcare programs. The Trump administration has enacted Medicaid cuts through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Hayes believes Maryland must prepare to protect residents from potential coverage threats and rising costs associated with these federal changes.

The appointment marks a shift in leadership for a committee that has historically been dominated by suburban or rural interests. Hayes is now the only chair of a major Senate standing committee who represents Baltimore City. His background in community organizing and public service will inform his approach to economic and health policy as he leads the committee.