MarylandSB 02432026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

Uniformed Services Spouses Act

Sponsored By: Bryan W. Simonaire (Republican)

Signed by Governor

State Government - Agencies, Offices, and OfficialsHigher EducationPrivate Sector Labor and IndustryState Government - PersonnelUtility RegulationArmed Forces and Uniformed ServicesCommunity CollegesHigher Education -see also- Comm Colleges; Med Schools; etc.Registration -see also- Motor Vehicle RegistrationSpousesState Universities and CollegesVeterans

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Scholarships usable out of state for military families

Beginning October 1, 2026, Senators may award up to 10% of senatorial scholarship funds to active service members or their spouses who study outside Maryland, if domiciled in Maryland. Delegate Scholarships may also be used at accredited schools outside Maryland for active service members or their spouses who are domiciled in Maryland. Active service members and their spouses who get a senatorial scholarship may be treated as domiciled in Maryland for that scholarship when they meet the other stated conditions.

10-point boost for veterans and spouses

Beginning October 1, 2026, State hiring tests add 10 points for eligible spouses and eligible veterans. Former prisoners of war get 2 more points. The credit applies to selection tests used for State jobs. You cannot get the credit if you are a current State employee. Eligible veterans also lose the credit if convicted of a crime after service.

Optional hiring edge for military spouses

Beginning October 1, 2026, Maryland employers may give hiring and promotion preference to the spouse of an active service member. The Maryland Public Service Commission may also give this preference in its hiring and promotions. These preferences are optional for employers.

Stronger campus support for veterans and spouses

Beginning October 1, 2026, every Maryland community college must train all student advisors on veterans’ and spouses’ needs and resources. Each college must employ at least one staff member who gives intensive enrollment and advising help to veterans and spouses. Each college must set up a veterans resource center with access to federal and State resources, a quiet study space, and referrals.

Priority class registration for military families

Beginning October 1, 2026, Maryland public colleges must give priority course registration to an eligible service member or eligible spouse. The priority applies only within 15 years after the service member’s last active duty and ends after four academic years. Colleges must publish rules that explain who qualifies and how to use it. The law defines an eligible service member as an active service member or a veteran with an other-than-dishonorable discharge, and an eligible spouse as their spouse.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Bryan W. Simonaire
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Dalya Attar
Democratic • Senate
Benjamin Brooks
Democratic • Senate
Mary Beth Carozza
Republican • Senate
Arthur Ellis
Democratic • Senate
Brian J. Feldman
Democratic • Senate
Jason C. Gallion
Republican • Senate
Dawn Gile
Democratic • Senate
Kevin M. Harris
Democratic • Senate
Katie Fry Hester
Democratic • Senate
Cheryl C. Kagan
Democratic • Senate
Benjamin F. Kramer
Democratic • Senate
Mary Washington
Democratic • Senate
William C. Smith
Democratic • Senate
Ron Watson
Democratic • Senate
Chris West
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 178 • No: 0

House vote • 4/8/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 134 • No: 0 • Other: 2

Senate vote • 2/26/2026