Bill > HB1517

This bill establishes a tuition exemption for financially dependent children of state or local public safety employees who die in the line of duty. Specifically, the bill allows these children to pay in-state tuition rates at public higher education institutions in Maryland, regardless of their state of residence. The definition of "state or local public safety employee" is broad and includes career or volunteer members of fire departments, ambulance or rescue companies/squads, law enforcement officers, correctional officers, and members of the Maryland National Guard who were Maryland residents at the time of their death. The bill defines these children as "financially dependent" and ensures they will not be charged out-of-state or out-of-county tuition rates when attending a public college or university in Maryland. The Maryland higher education commission is required to create regulations to implement this tuition exemption, and the law will take effect on July 1, 2025. This legislation appears designed to provide educational support for the families of public safety workers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1517?ys=2025RS