Bill > HB1060

This bill updates and standardizes definitions related to military service across multiple areas of Maryland state law, with a focus on ensuring consistent terminology and broader inclusivity for service members and veterans. The bill primarily modifies definitions of terms like "uniformed services," "veteran," "active duty," and "service member" to reference a single standard definition found in Section 9-901 of the State Government Article, which adopts definitions from federal statutes. Key changes include expanding the definition of "veteran" to align with federal law, broadening references from just "armed forces" to "uniformed services" (which includes more types of military service), and ensuring that benefits, rights, and legal provisions apply more comprehensively to all types of military service members, including reserve components and members of services like the Public Health Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The bill affects numerous areas of law, including correctional services, judicial proceedings, criminal law, family law, public safety, and real property regulations, with the goal of providing more consistent and inclusive treatment of military service members and veterans. The changes will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1060?ys=2025RS