A list of 50 individuals and businesses owing delinquent taxes to the State of Maryland appeared on the Maryland Comptroller's web site yesterday. The list reflects approximately $10 million in unpaid taxes.

Maryland is not the first state to attempt this type of public humiliation. Others participating in such a program include California, Connecticut, Illinois, Montana, New Jersey, New York City, and Washington D.C. The State of Connecticut claims to have collected $67 million in delinquent taxes since they began this program three years ago.

All taxpayers on the list have been served with liens, thus making their tax delinquency a matter of public record. The Comptroller is hoping that taxpayers on the list will contact the Comptroller's office to make restitution or set up a payment plan. Once payment has been made or a payment agreement is in place, the name of the miscreant will be removed from the list.