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HB 1181

Task Force on the Establishment of a State Park Dedicated to Veterans' Care

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terry Baker and 3 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes task force to study creating state park dedicated to veterans' care, combining recreational space with healthcare and support services.

Referred Education, Energy, and the Environment
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1181

Legislative bill overview

HB 1181 establishes a task force to study the feasibility and design of a Maryland state park dedicated to veterans' care and services. The bill directs the task force to evaluate locations, funding mechanisms, and operational models for this specialized facility within Maryland's state park system.

Why is this important

Veterans represent a significant population with unique healthcare, mental health, and social needs, and dedicated facilities can improve access to specialized services. A state park designed around veterans' care could integrate recreational therapy, mental health treatment, and community support in a single venue—potentially reducing veteran homelessness, suicide rates, and social isolation while providing economic benefits through employment and park operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Establishing and operating a specialized state park requires substantial capital investment and ongoing operational funding, raising questions about where resources will come from and whether this is the most efficient use of state park budgets
  • Scope creep and mission clarity: Blending state park operations with healthcare/veterans services creates operational complexity; unclear governance could result in inadequate care or poor park management
  • Geographic equity: A single state park may not serve veterans statewide; questions remain about accessibility for rural veterans and whether targeted funding should instead support existing veterans' services across multiple locations

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

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