Bill > HB982

This bill amends Maryland law to expand eligibility for a tuition exemption at public higher education institutions for individuals who were in foster care. Specifically, it redefines a "foster care recipient" to include individuals who resided in an out-of-home placement on or after their 8th birthday, rather than the previous requirement of being in placement on or after their 13th birthday, provided they meet certain conditions like being placed into guardianship, adopted, or reunited with a parent for at least one year. This change aims to make the tuition exemption accessible to a broader group of young people who have experienced foster care, allowing them to pursue vocational certificates, associate's degrees, or bachelor's degrees without paying tuition, as long as they enroll before age 25 and have applied for financial aid.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0982?ys=2026RS