Bill > SB182

This bill expands the Maryland Veterans Service Animal Program to include spouses and dependents of eligible veterans as potential program participants. Currently, the program is designed to help veterans access service dogs, support dogs, or therapy horses to improve their mental health and well-being. The bill adds a new definition of "eligible family member" as a spouse or dependent of an eligible veteran, and modifies multiple sections of the existing law to include these family members in program activities. This means that spouses and dependents can now be referred to nonprofit training entities, receive funding assistance, participate in training protocols with service animals, and potentially benefit from the program's goals of reducing veteran suicide rates and providing supportive services. The program will continue to be administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, with funding coming from state appropriations, donations, and other sources. The changes will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving the department time to update regulations and prepare for the expanded eligibility.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0182?ys=2025RS