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Bill

SB 167

Department of Natural Resources - Licenses, Permits, Registrations, and Public Profiles - Notation of Veteran Status

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ben Brooks and 3 co-sponsors

Maryland allows veterans to voluntarily display veteran status on hunting/fishing licenses and public profiles to support targeted outreach and veteran recreation programs.

Second Reading Passed with Amendments
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Bill Summary · SB 167

Legislative bill overview

SB 167 requires the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to allow veterans to voluntarily indicate their veteran status on hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses, permits, and registrations. The bill creates a public-facing profile system where this veteran designation can be displayed, similar to how some states identify disabled hunters or other special categories.

Why is this important

Identifying veterans in outdoor recreation systems can facilitate targeted outreach for veteran-specific hunting and fishing programs, potentially supporting veteran mental health and community reintegration through outdoor recreation. It may also streamline administrative processes for veterans seeking benefits or accommodations tied to their military service in wildlife activities.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Some veterans may object to having their military status publicly visible on profiles, even on a voluntary basis, due to security, personal preference, or unwanted solicitation concerns
  • Administrative cost and complexity: The system requires DNR to develop and maintain profile infrastructure, data security protocols, and staff training—costs that may not be explicitly budgeted
  • Purpose and scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify what benefits or programs will actually use this notation, raising questions about whether it solves a documented problem or creates data collection without clear utility

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

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