Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman Emphasizes Immigrant Contributions and Policy Vision in Exclusive Interview

Featured & Cover Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman Emphasizes Immigrant Contributions and Policy Vision in Exclusive Interview

In an exclusive conversation with South Asian Herald on January 9, 2025, Brooke Lierman, Maryland’s 34th Comptroller, reflected on her historic election and shared her aspirations for the state’s future. Speaking from her Annapolis office, she discussed efforts to modernize Maryland’s tax and accounting systems, the vital role of immigrants in the state’s economy, and strategies to address policies from the incoming Trump administration. She also highlighted the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller and the immense contributions of South Asian communities.

Making History Without Losing Focus

As the first female Comptroller of Maryland and the first woman elected to an independent state government office in the state’s history, Lierman noted the significance of her achievement while emphasizing her broader mission. “I think representative government only works if it is truly representative of the people who elect our leaders,” she remarked. Lierman underscored that her goal was never to make history but to bring meaningful change to Maryland. Nevertheless, she acknowledged the importance of inspiring young women and girls to overcome barriers, adding, “When I see girls and young women around the state, I want to encourage them to break any glass ceilings that stand in their way as well.”

Modernizing Maryland’s Tax Systems

Lierman oversees a workforce of more than 1,000 employees responsible for tax collection, fraud prevention, and issuing refunds. Reflecting on her campaign and tenure, she stated, “I knew I wanted to be an advocate for the people of Maryland and for our small businesses.” Under her leadership, the Comptroller’s Office has adopted a vision of creating a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous state, driven by three core priorities: improving government efficiency, enhancing accessibility for Maryland residents, and fostering a robust, equitable economy.

One of her key initiatives has been modernizing Maryland’s outdated tax and accounting systems, which were built on decades-old COBOL programming. Lierman explained that transitioning to a cloud-based tax processing system is a vital step in improving transparency and efficiency. Business taxes have already been migrated, with personal taxes set to follow in 2025. Additionally, a revamped website scheduled to launch in March aims to make the agency more accessible.

To further serve Marylanders, her office has created roles such as the New Americans Director, tasked with engaging immigrant communities, and the Small Business Director, who supports local entrepreneurs. “All of the work we do fits into one of those priority areas,” she emphasized, highlighting the agency’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity.

Boosting Maryland’s Economy Through Strategic Investments

At the first Board of Public Works meeting of 2025, Lierman and her colleagues approved $1.23 billion in funding for various state projects. As part of this unique three-member board that includes the Governor and Treasurer, Lierman helps oversee significant state expenditures. She explained, “We approved a variety of payments, including grants for affordable housing developments, funding for locally operated transit systems in various counties, and support for the Child Care Scholarship Program.” These initiatives aim to strengthen the state’s infrastructure and social support systems.

Immigration and Economic Growth

In 2024, the Comptroller’s Office released a groundbreaking report titled Immigration and the Economy, which detailed the significant role of immigrants in Maryland. According to Lierman, international migration has offset declines in domestic migration and natural population growth, making it a critical driver of the state’s economy. Immigrants constitute 16.7% of Maryland’s population and 21% of its workforce, with many settling in Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Howard Counties.

Lierman highlighted that India is the second-largest country of origin for immigrants in Maryland, comprising 6.3% of the state’s population. Immigrants have a strong presence in STEM fields and healthcare, accounting for 23% of STEM professionals and registered nurses. “Their contributions are essential to Maryland’s communities, families, and economy. We’re very lucky to attract so many international immigrants, especially from South Asia,” she said.

Cultural and Philanthropic Contributions of South Asians

Lierman praised the vibrant contributions of Indian Americans and South Asian immigrants to Maryland’s cultural and economic landscape. From diverse cuisines to community-driven festivals, these communities have enriched the state in countless ways. “I love living in Maryland because we have such an incredible population of Indian Americans and other South Asian immigrants,” she shared.

Religious institutions, like the BAPS temple, play a crucial role in fostering cultural heritage. During the COVID-19 pandemic, South Asian organizations showcased exceptional outreach efforts, organizing food and clothing drives and supporting healthcare workers. “It is a blessing that South Asian immigrants have chosen Maryland as their new home,” Lierman remarked, acknowledging their spirit of service and dedication.

The Leadership of Aruna Miller

Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, the first Indian American and South Asian immigrant to hold the position, has been a trailblazer in Maryland politics. Lierman, who worked with Miller in the House of Delegates, praised her commitment and teamwork. “She’s done a phenomenal job at elevating the importance of the South Asian and Indian American community in Maryland,” Lierman said. She expressed pride in Miller’s leadership within the Moore-Miller administration and noted the broader impact of her achievements on immigrant representation.

Preparing for Federal Challenges

As the Trump administration prepares to take office, Lierman’s team is closely monitoring policies that could affect Maryland’s workforce and immigrant communities. “We are keeping a watchful eye on the Trump administration’s policies that could have a deleterious effect on our workforce, on the federal employees in our state, and on our immigrant communities,” she explained. Lierman emphasized the importance of federal jobs to Maryland’s economy and pledged to work with Governor Wes Moore to support residents.

Message to Immigrant Communities

Lierman expressed her deep gratitude to Maryland’s immigrant communities, highlighting their active engagement and significant contributions. “Their presence is a tremendous blessing for our state,” she stated. From starting successful businesses to supporting neighbors during crises, immigrants have strengthened Maryland’s social and economic fabric. Lierman assured them of her unwavering support, adding, “I ran to be an advocate for all Marylanders, and that includes our immigrant communities.”

Looking Ahead

As Brooke Lierman continues her term as Comptroller, she remains committed to creating a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous Maryland. By modernizing systems, fostering community engagement, and addressing challenges head-on, she is striving to ensure that all Marylanders, especially its immigrant communities, can thrive. “My door is always open,” she affirmed, signaling her dedication to building a state that reflects the diversity and strength of its people.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More Related Stories

-+=