Starting October 1, veterans and active-duty service members in Maryland will see new state benefits take effect as part of more than 400 bills signed into law during the 2025 legislative session.
The five new measures — ranging from health care access to employment opportunities and free recreational benefits — are designed to better align Maryland’s veteran support systems with federal standards while improving quality of life for military families.
Honoring Blind and Visually Impaired Veterans
The Braille Flag Memorial Act requires Maryland’s Department of Veterans and Military Families to house an “American braille tactile flag” at one or more of the state’s veterans cemeteries.
Developed by the Kansas Braille Transcription Institute, this special flag allows blind and visually impaired veterans to experience the American flag through touch. Advocates say it provides a more inclusive way of honoring service and sacrifice.
Expanded Benefits for Military Families
Senate Bill 275 ensures that Maryland’s laws reflect U.S. Department of Defense standards when defining military families. The new law updates eligibility to include spouses and dependent children related by blood, marriage, or adoption, granting them access to benefits such as hiring preferences for state employment.
This alignment helps military families receive the same recognition at the state level as they do under federal law.
Improving Health Care Equality
The Health Equality for Service Members Act makes several important changes to ensure veterans and service members have equitable access to health services. Key provisions include:
Waiving fees for copies of medical records, birth certificates, and death certificates for veterans and service members.
Allowing dependents of deployed service members to remain on waitlists for Developmental Disabilities Administration services, preventing gaps in care during deployments.
The law is designed to ease administrative burdens and improve continuity of care for families facing the unique challenges of military life.
Opening Employment and Justice System Opportunities
The Judicial and Public Safety for Service Members Act creates new pathways for veterans and service members in state employment and the legal system.
Correctional officer jobs: Maryland will now waive the minimum age requirement of 21 for honorably discharged veterans and reservists.
Court records: Fees for obtaining documents such as marriage certificates will be waived for active-duty members and veterans.
Lawmakers say these changes both expand career opportunities for veterans and reduce unnecessary costs for those who served.
Free Recreation and Outdoor Opportunities
Through the Recreational Equality for Service Members Act, veterans will gain greater access to Maryland’s outdoor resources.
Veterans will now have free admission to all state parks.
Fishing licenses will be waived for veterans participating in programs organized by nonprofits or government agencies.
Licenses will remain valid for service members deployed during their term, preventing accidental lapses.
Organizations offering hunting, fishing, or outdoor opportunities for veterans can apply for state grants to offset program costs.
This initiative reflects the growing recognition of outdoor recreation as an important tool in supporting veteran mental health and community reintegration.
Maryland Strengthens Its Commitment to Veterans
The five new laws build on Maryland’s ongoing efforts to expand opportunities and benefits for the state’s veterans, service members, and their families. By addressing employment, health care, recreation, and family inclusion, lawmakers aim to remove barriers and ensure veterans have meaningful support across multiple aspects of life.
As the October 1 implementation date approaches, veterans and military families are encouraged to learn more about how these new laws may affect them directly.
At Veterans Guide, we help veterans and their families navigate benefits and services at both the federal and state levels. If you’re a Maryland veteran or service member looking to understand how these new laws impact your rights and opportunities, contact us today for guidance.
