Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has warned that massive budget cuts are on the way as state lawmakers try to solve a $3 billion budget gap. He told Maryland residents Wednesday to brace themselves for $2 billion worth of cuts in his soon-to-be-released budget.

The 447th session of the Maryland General Assembly began Wednesday with its regular fanfare, though talk of the massive budget deficit lawmakers are set to tangle with marked speeches and discussions.

Maryland's 90-day legislative session opened Wednesday with the governor calling for $2 billion in cuts to balance the state budget amid a shortfall of almost $3 billion. Concern over the projected budget gap is setting an underlying tone of concern this session.

Gov. Wes Moore said Wednesday he will propose $2 billion in cuts next week when he releases his plan for Maryland’s next state budget and that he continues to have a “very high bar” for tax increases.