MarylandSB 01992026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

Individuals With Disabilities and Service-Disabled Veterans Boating Fund - Eligible Companions

Sponsored By: Bryan W. Simonaire (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Social Services - GenerallyDisabledBoats and ShipsCaregiversDisabilities, Department ofDisabilitiesGrantsKinship -see also- Parents and GuardiansRevenue and Taxes -see also- (specific tax)Sports and RecreationVeterans

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

New boating fund for disabled people and veterans

Beginning Oct 1, 2026, Maryland creates a special, nonlapsing Boating Fund. The State Treasurer holds it separately and the Comptroller tracks it. The Fund can take State budget money and other donations. Money can only pay grants and the Department’s administrative costs. The Department of Disabilities runs the program.

Who qualifies: ADA and companions included

Beginning Oct 1, 2026, the law sets who can take part in Fund activities. An eligible companion is a family member or direct support professional who accompanies the participant. The law uses the Americans with Disabilities Act definition of disability. It also says learning disabilities count.

Up to $40,000 grants to qualified nonprofits

Beginning Oct 1, 2026, the Department can award up to $40,000 per grantee each year. Grants fund sailing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and surfing on State waters. Activities must serve people with disabilities, service‑disabled veterans, and their eligible companions. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing that have run at least 3 years may apply. They must have hosted these activities at least 25 times in each of the past 3 years, and breaks during declared national or public health emergencies do not count against the 3‑year rule.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Bryan W. Simonaire
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Guy Guzzone
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 177 • No: 1

House vote • 4/13/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 134 • No: 1 • Other: 5

Senate vote • 2/12/2026