Bill > SB755

This bill modifies Maryland's student financial assistance laws to provide support for students in informal kinship care relationships. Specifically, the bill requires the Maryland Higher Education Commission to consider students in informal kinship care arrangements as independent for the purpose of qualifying for financial aid. To be eligible, these students must participate in an informal kinship care relationship that is licensed by the Department of Human Services and provide a copy of an affidavit verifying the kinship care relationship to the county board. An informal kinship care relationship typically involves a child being raised by a relative or family friend who is not the child's biological parent. The bill adds this provision to the existing Guaranteed Access Grant program, which provides financial assistance to students with demonstrated financial need. By recognizing students in informal kinship care arrangements as independent, the bill aims to expand access to higher education financial support for students who may face unique family circumstances. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving institutions time to implement the new eligibility criteria.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0755?ys=2025RS