Bill > SB248

This bill makes several significant revisions to Maryland's service and civic innovation programs. The bill renames the Governor's Volunteer Council to the Governor's Commission on Service and Volunteerism and modifies the Department of Service and Civic Innovation's responsibilities by removing administration of the Executive Fellows Program. For the Young Adult Service Year Option Pathway, the bill updates participant eligibility requirements, specifying that applicants must be Maryland residents, at least 18 but under 25 years old, and have graduated from high school or obtained an equivalent education level. The bill adjusts compensation provisions, removing the specific $15 per hour rate and instead requiring at least the applicable county or state minimum wage. The Maryland Service Year Option Pathway also receives similar modifications, with expanded eligibility and wage requirements. The bill establishes more detailed reporting requirements for both pathways, mandating annual reports that track participant demographics, program costs, post-program transitions, and employment outcomes. Additionally, the bill creates funding mechanisms for both pathways, with increasing state appropriations from $5 million in fiscal year 2024 to $20 million in fiscal year 2027 and beyond. Notably, the bill repeals the Executive Fellows Program and takes effect on July 1, 2025.

Education, Health and Social Services

Education, Energy, and the Environment (S)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0248?ys=2025RS