Bill > HB587

This bill expands an existing Maryland law that allows veterans to obtain a high school diploma if they withdrew from an accredited high school to enlist in the armed forces during a specific conflict. The bill broadens the list of qualifying conflicts beyond World War II, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam Conflict to now include the Gulf War, the Afghan Conflict, and the Iraq War. Veterans who were honorably discharged from military service and withdrew from a full-time public or private high school to enlist during these conflicts can apply for a diploma through the county board where they currently reside or where their original school was located. Each county board will be required to establish procedures for processing and awarding these diplomas. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, which provides ample time for school districts to prepare implementation procedures. This legislative change recognizes the educational sacrifices made by service members who left high school to serve their country during designated armed conflicts.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0587?ys=2025RS