ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Jan. 9 marked a new dawn for military law in Maryland. Existing policies often contain outdated terminology, prompting the introduction of legislation aimed at modernizing military law. The goal is not to completely rewrite Maryland’s laws but to update them to reflect modern standards and ensure equality.
Lawmakers aim to provide consistent benefits to service members across all branches, addressing a significant issue in Maryland. Many current and former service members have been denied benefits due to terminology that has been outdated for decades.
These benefits include healthcare, tuition, and other services that help military members and veterans integrate into society. By updating the law, all veterans can more easily access the benefits they are entitled to without unnecessary hurdles.
Bryan Simonaire’s Mission to Uphold Equality in the Military
New legislation introduced on Jan. 9 by Sen. Bryan Simonaire seeks to significantly update the language of Maryland’s military laws. Simonaire worked closely with military groups and considered input from multiple stakeholders in drafting the legislation.
The initiative consists of eight bills that have bipartisan support, with sponsorship from five House delegates:
- Del. Nic Kipke
- Del. Mike Rogers
- Del. Edith Patterson
- Del. Charlotte Crutchfield
- Del. Nick Allen
The synopsis for SB0275 states: “Establishing rules of interpretation related to the uniformed services; altering the rule of interpretation for ‘veteran’; requiring the Secretary of Veterans and Military Families to develop certain policies related to life transitions of veterans, service members, and military families; and altering the application of certain provisions of law related to veterans, the uniformed services, and the filing of certificates of candidacy, the powers of the Governor, State veterans’ cemeteries, and housing and employment discrimination.”
Veterans will benefit from the legislation, as it provides a clearer definition of “veteran” in Maryland. For instance, military members who did not deploy will still have access to certain benefits. The updated definitions and terminology will make these rights more transparent.
By ensuring all veterans can receive their entitled benefits, Maryland moves closer to achieving equality for its uniformed service members. The legislation may also encourage more young people to join the military, as benefits will become more accessible.
A Step Toward Equality
The Modernization of Military Laws Act, along with related bills, represents a significant step toward achieving equality for both active service members and veterans. With bipartisan support from Maryland politicians, there appears to be little opposition to updating the state’s military laws.
The Modernization of Military Laws Act (SB0275) is currently in the Senate. A hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Jan. 23.
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