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Bill

SB 48

Department of General Services - Identification Cards - Veteran Status Notation

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Jackson and 1 co-sponsor

Maryland allows veterans to voluntarily request military service notation on state identification cards to verify veteran status for benefits and discounts.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 247
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Bill Summary · SB 48

Legislative bill overview

SB 48 requires the Maryland Department of General Services to allow veterans to have their veteran status noted on state identification cards, including driver's licenses. The bill was approved by the Governor on May 6, 2025, and became Chapter 247 of Maryland law. This is a voluntary notation that veterans can request when obtaining or renewing their ID.

Why is this important

Veteran status notation on IDs provides practical benefits including eligibility verification for veteran discounts, services, and benefits at businesses and government agencies without requiring additional documentation. It also increases visibility and recognition of military service in everyday transactions. However, it raises privacy considerations since veteran status becomes publicly visible to any person checking ID.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Veterans' military service history becomes visible to any ID checker, potentially exposing sensitive personal information without case-by-case consent
  • Implementation costs: The state must reprogram ID systems, train personnel, and potentially issue replacement cards, with unclear fiscal impact
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify which veteran categories qualify (active duty, reserves, National Guard, discharge status requirements) or how to verify eligibility, potentially creating administrative burden

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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