Bill > SB6

This bill establishes a Veterans and Military Families Ombudsman within the Department of Veterans and Military Families to serve as a dedicated resource for veterans and military families. The Ombudsman, who must be a veteran, will be appointed by the Secretary for a 5-year term and can be removed for cause. The Ombudsman's primary responsibilities include providing information and support about state and federal laws, explaining rights to veterans and military families, offering impartial guidance on accessing services, advocating on their behalf, and identifying patterns of complaints. The Ombudsman will maintain a confidential toll-free telephone number available in multiple languages to assist individuals seeking information about veteran and military family services. Additionally, the Ombudsman is required to submit an annual report to the Governor and General Assembly by July 1st each year, detailing the number and type of calls received, identified complaint patterns, services provided, and recommendations for improving veteran and military family services. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, with funding for the Ombudsman's salary, staff, and operational expenses to be provided through the state budget.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0006?ys=2025RS