Md. Code, Local Government § 16–402

A county or municipality may use the taxing and borrowing authority granted

under this subtitle only for the general protection and preservation of the public

safety, peace, health, and welfare by providing its destitute and unemployed

residents with:

(1) assistance, food, shelter, supplies, necessities, and other relief,

either alone or in conjunction and cooperation with the State or federal government;

or

(2) employment, either alone or as a part of a general State or federal

government plan.