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SB 96

Sheila E. Hixson Behavioral Health Services Matching Grant Program for Service Members and Veterans - Terminology - Active Service Members

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bryan Simonaire

Maryland expands behavioral health grant program to include active service members alongside veterans, enabling earlier mental health intervention during military service.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 336
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Bill Summary · SB 96

Legislative bill overview

SB 96 establishes the Sheila E. Hixson Behavioral Health Services Matching Grant Program in Maryland, which provides matching grants to support behavioral health services for active service members and veterans. The bill expands eligibility beyond veterans to explicitly include currently active service members, recognizing mental health needs of military personnel still in service.

Why is this important

Military service members and veterans experience elevated rates of mental health conditions including PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders. By extending grant funding to active service members—not just veterans—the bill aims to provide earlier intervention and support during service, potentially reducing crisis situations and improving long-term outcomes. The matching grant structure leverages public and private resources to expand service capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Matching grant programs require ongoing state funding commitments; fiscal impact and sustainability may concern budget-focused legislators
  • Definition of "active service members": Clarity needed on whether this includes National Guard, Reserve, and federal military only, or encompasses all categories
  • Program administration: Questions about which agencies administer grants, eligibility criteria for service providers, and accountability mechanisms for grant recipients

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

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