Bill > HB628

This bill establishes the Universal Basic Income for Transition-Age Youth Program within the Department of Human Services to provide financial support to young people aging out of the out-of-home placement program, which refers to youth in foster care or similar state-supervised living situations. The program will provide unconditional monthly cash payments of $1,000 for three years to eligible individuals who were in out-of-home placement on their 18th birthday and whose 18th birthday occurs on or after October 1, 2026. Importantly, these payments will not be counted as income or resources when determining eligibility for other benefits like the Maryland Medical Assistance Program, the Maryland Earned Income Tax Credit, or state and federal financial aid for college. The Department of Human Services is also required to submit an annual report to the General Assembly by October 1st detailing recipient information, including their income, location, and employment and housing status before receiving the payments, to track the program's outcomes. This Act will take effect on October 1, 2026, and will remain in effect for five years, automatically expiring on September 30, 2031.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0628?ys=2026RS