reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 6 - Community Services › Subtitle 6 - Commission on Responsible Fatherhood › Section 6-606 - Quorum; Meetings; Compensation

(a)    A majority of the members then serving on the Commission is a quorum.
(b)    The Commission shall determine the times and places of its meetings.
(c)    A member of the Commission:
(1)    may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but
(2)    is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 6 - Community Services › Subtitle 6 - Commission on Responsible Fatherhood › Section 6-608 - Staff

(a)    (1)    Subject to the approval of the Governor, the Commission shall hire a staff director as provided in the State budget.
(2)    Subject to the advice and consent of the chair of the Commission, the staff director shall hire additional staff as provided in the State budget to perform the duties that the Commission considers appropriate.
(b)    The staff is responsible to the Secretary solely for routine administrative purposes.
(c)    Members of the Commission may designate staff from their respective units to assist the Commission.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 6 - Community Services › Subtitle 6 - Commission on Responsible Fatherhood › Section 6-609 - Duties

(a)    The Commission shall:
(1)    conduct a thorough examination of the extent and implications of the absence of responsible fathers from families;
(2)    strongly advocate to ensure the development of a coordinated and comprehensive approach to the social, educational, economic, health, and legal problems of responsible fatherhood;
(3)    promote interdepartmental and public and private policy and program collaboration and coordination;
(4)    collect data and perform analyses on efforts to increase responsible fatherhood;
(5)    promote the development of statewide policies to address the issues preventing fathers from participating in raising their children;
(6)    monitor statewide progress towards reducing the number of noncustodial fathers;
(7)    promote and encourage wide community input, communication, and education regarding responsible fatherhood; and
(8)    advise local public and private agencies seeking to mobilize local efforts to promote responsible fatherhood.
(b)    To carry out its duties under subsection (a)(1) of this section, the Commission shall:
(1)    hold hearings at which persons, organizations, and agencies with an interest in responsible fatherhood may present their views;
(2)    conduct meetings, discussions, and examinations as necessary to gather information on the laws and services relating to responsible fatherhood in this and other states;
(3)    identify and examine the limitations and problems associated with existing laws, programs, and services relating to responsible fatherhood; and
(4)    examine the financing and delivery of services relating to responsible fatherhood.
(c)    (1)    In cooperation with appropriate State and local units and in accordance with State and federal law, the Commission shall foster plans to enhance the coordination of federal– and State–funded programs and services regarding responsible fatherhood.
(2)    The Commission shall develop a coordinated comprehensive statewide plan, including estimates of necessary public and private funding, for:
(i)    increasing the participation of fathers in raising their children; and
(ii)    improving services to noncustodial fathers.
(3)    In accordance with the statewide plan, the Commission shall recommend to the Governor distribution of community incentive grants concerning responsible fatherhood from funds provided in the State budget for this purpose or from grants or private donations, giving priority to innovative projects that:
(i)    promote the establishment of a coordinated network of services for noncustodial fathers; and
(ii)    demonstrate a high level of commitment to the project by making available nonstate funds, personnel, and facilities.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 6 - Community Services › Subtitle 7 - Citizenship Promotion Program › Section 6-703 - Purposes

The purposes of the Program are:
(1)    to encourage and assist eligible foreign-born residents to become naturalized citizens of the United States and active participants in the civic life of Maryland;
(2)    to increase the number and proportion of eligible foreign-born residents who become citizens of the United States; and
(3)    to encourage foreign-born residents who become citizens to be involved in our democratic institutions.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 6 - Community Services › Subtitle 7 - Citizenship Promotion Program › Section 6-704 - Duties

In accordance with the State budget, the Program shall:
(1)    encourage eligible residents to learn English;
(2)    encourage eligible residents to become naturalized citizens of the United States;
(3)    inform eligible residents about the rights and responsibilities of citizens, the process of naturalization, and the availability of citizenship services;
(4)    make available or increase the availability of instruction in:
(i)    English as a second language;
(ii)    United States history; and
(iii)    citizenship preparation;
(5)    make available or increase the availability of assistance in completing applications for naturalization;
(6)    establish an effective connection to nonpartisan voter registration efforts;
(7)    encourage the involvement of new citizens in democratic institutions; and
(8)    work with federal, State, and local units of government and organizations to respond to the need for citizenship services in the State.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 6 - Community Services › Subtitle 8 - Financial Capability Services › Section 6-801 - Appropriation in Annual Budget

(a)    For fiscal years 2021 through 2023, the Governor shall include in the annual State budget an appropriation of $200,000 for the CASH Campaign of Maryland to promote the financial capability of low–income individuals and families by providing outreach, education, and free tax preparation services.
(b)    For fiscal year 2024 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of $500,000 for the CASH Campaign.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 6 - Community Services › Subtitle 8 - Financial Capability Services › Section 6-802 - Uses of Appropriation

An appropriation made under § 6–801 of this subtitle may be used only to:
(1)    provide free volunteer income tax assistance that helps low–income individuals and families:
(i)    file tax returns;
(ii)    avoid predatory fees; and
(iii)    claim the federal earned income tax credit or the State earned income tax credit under § 10–704 of the Tax – General Article;
(2)    coordinate and expand access to free, fact–based financial education and coaching for low–income individuals and families;
(3)    connect low–income individuals and families to affordable, high–quality financial services;
(4)    recruit, train, and manage a corps of volunteers to provide financial education, coaching, and tax preparation services for low–income individuals and families; and
(5)    conduct outreach to low–income individuals and families.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part I - Definitions › Section 7-101 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Board” means the Interagency Disabilities Board.
(c)    “Commission” means the Maryland Commission on Disabilities.
(d)    “Department” means the Department of Disabilities.
(e)    “Disability” has the meaning stated in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. § 12102.
(f)    “Secretary” means the Secretary of Disabilities.
(g)    “Unit of State government” means a department, agency, office, commission, council, or other unit in the Executive Branch of the State government.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part II - Organization and Administration of Department › Section 7-105 - Secretary

(a)    (1)    With the advice and consent of the Senate, the Governor shall appoint the Secretary of Disabilities.
(2)    The Secretary is the head of the Department.
(b)    The Secretary shall:
(1)    have extensive experience and knowledge of disability laws, legislation, and regulations, and programs for individuals with disabilities;
(2)    at a minimum, hold a bachelor’s degree; and
(3)    be an individual with a disability or appoint a deputy secretary who is an individual with a disability.
(c)    Before taking office, the appointee shall take the oath required by Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution.
(d)    (1)    The Secretary serves at the pleasure of the Governor and is responsible directly to the Governor.
(2)    The Secretary shall advise the Governor on all matters assigned to the Department and is responsible for carrying out the Governor’s policies on those matters.
(e)    The Secretary is entitled to the compensation provided in the State budget.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part II - Organization and Administration of Department › Section 7-106 - Administration of Department

(a)    The Secretary is responsible for the operation of the Department and shall establish guidelines and procedures to promote the orderly and efficient operation of the Department.
(b)    The Secretary may establish, reorganize, or abolish areas of responsibility in the Department as necessary to fulfill the duties assigned to the Secretary.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part II - Organization and Administration of Department › Section 7-107 - Deputy Secretary

(a)    With the approval of the Governor, the Secretary shall appoint a deputy secretary.
(b)    The deputy secretary shall be an individual with a disability, if the Secretary is not an individual with a disability.
(c)    The deputy secretary:
(1)    serves at the pleasure of the Secretary; and
(2)    is entitled to the compensation provided in the State budget.
(d)    The deputy secretary has the duties provided by law or delegated by the Secretary.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part II - Organization and Administration of Department › Section 7-108 - Staff

(a)    In accordance with the State budget, the Secretary may employ a staff.
(b)    Unless otherwise provided by law, the Secretary shall appoint and remove all staff in accordance with the provisions of the State Personnel and Pensions Article.
(c)    The Secretary may review any personnel action taken by any unit in the Department.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part II - Organization and Administration of Department › Section 7-109 - Legal Counsel

(a)    The Attorney General is the legal adviser to the Department.
(b)    The Attorney General shall assign to the Department the number of assistant Attorneys General authorized by law to be assigned to the Department.
(c)    (1)    The Attorney General shall designate one of the assistant Attorneys General assigned to the Department as counsel to the Department and may not reassign that individual without consulting with the Secretary.
(2)    The counsel to the Department shall have only the following duties:
(i)    to give the legal aid, advice, and counsel required by the Secretary and any other official of the Department;
(ii)    to supervise the other assistant Attorneys General assigned to the Department; and
(iii)    to perform for the Department the duties that the Attorney General assigns.
(3)    The counsel shall perform the duties under paragraph (2) of this subsection subject to the control and supervision of the Attorney General.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part III - Powers and Duties › Section 7-113 - Powers and Duties of Secretary

(a)    The Secretary is responsible for the budget of the Department.
(b)    Except as otherwise provided by law, the Secretary shall pay all money collected by the Department under this subtitle into the General Fund of the State.
(c)    (1)    (i)    Before publication in the Maryland Register, the Secretary shall review new or proposed changes to regulations submitted by a unit of State government that relate to the provision of resources and services to individuals with disabilities.
(ii)    The regulations shall include an assessment that describes the impact of the proposed regulations on individuals with disabilities.
(2)    Before implementation, the Secretary shall review new or proposed changes to policies, programs, or services submitted by a unit of State government that relate to the provision of resources and services to individuals with disabilities.
(d)    (1)    The Secretary shall review, coordinate, and concur with any application for federal aid, waivers, or grants that is:
(i)    specific to services for individuals with disabilities; and
(ii)    submitted by or through any unit of State government.
(2)    Except as otherwise prohibited by law, the Secretary may apply for, receive, and use grants–in–aid, funds, or services from the federal government or any of its units, or any public or private source made available to the Department for use in carrying out the powers and duties of the Secretary or the Department.
(e)    (1)    The Secretary shall review the State Disabilities Plan developed by the Board in accordance with § 7–132 of this subtitle.
(2)    The Secretary may approve the State Disabilities Plan or amend the Plan if the Secretary determines that the Plan developed by the Board is not in accordance with § 7–132 of this subtitle.
(3)    The Secretary shall request that the Board revise the State Disabilities Plan at least once every 4 years.
(4)    The Secretary shall adopt regulations to implement the State Disabilities Plan as approved or as amended in accordance with paragraph (2) of this subsection.
(f)    The Secretary shall submit an annual analysis of the State’s progress in implementing the State Disabilities Plan and related performance objectives to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, to the General Assembly on or before December 1 of each year.
(g)    The Secretary may create citizens’ advisory bodies that the Secretary considers necessary for the effective operation of the Department.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part III - Powers and Duties › Section 7-114 - Duties of Department

(a)    (1)    The Department is the principal unit of State government responsible for developing, maintaining, revising, and enforcing statewide disability policies and standards throughout the units of State government.
(2)    In this capacity, the Department shall:
(i)    serve as the principal advisor to the Governor on the means and methods available to:
1.    implement and fund support to individuals with disabilities in accordance with the State Disabilities Plan;
2.    modify or consolidate support to individuals with disabilities; and
3.    collaborate with federal, regional, and local units of government to enhance the effectiveness of the provision and funding of support to individuals with disabilities;
(ii)    annually recommend projects to the Department of Budget and Management for inclusion in the capital budget to promote access to State-owned facilities for individuals with disabilities;
(iii)    assist units of State government to identify federal, State, local, and private funds available to the State for programs and services for individuals with disabilities; and
(iv)    provide technical assistance to local jurisdictions in planning and implementing collaborative strategies consistent with the State Disabilities Plan.
(b)    The Department shall oversee and administer the following programs and units:
(1)    constituent services and ombudsmen programs;
(2)    the Assistive Technology Guaranteed Loan Program under Subtitle 6 of this title;
(3)    the Office of Personal Assistance Services, including the Attendant Care Program under Subtitle 4 of this title;
(4)    Telecommunications Access of Maryland under Subtitle 8 of this title; and
(5)    Telecommunications Devices and Distribution of Accessible Information for Disabled Individuals under Subtitle 9 of this title.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part III - Powers and Duties › Section 7-115 - Duties of Other Units of State Government

Unless the disclosure of information is otherwise prohibited by law, each unit of State government shall provide to the Secretary:
(1)    at the request of the Secretary, information regarding current programs and services for individuals with disabilities; and
(2)    information regarding new or proposed programs and services for individuals with disabilities.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part III - Powers and Duties › Section 7-116 - Unit Plans

(a)    (1)    On or before July 1 of each year, each unit of State government shall develop a unit plan to implement the State Disabilities Plan as approved or amended by the Secretary under § 7-113(e) of this subtitle.
(2)    The unit plan shall contain an implementation schedule and measurable strategic performance objectives.
(3)    The Secretary may request amendments to a unit plan if the Secretary determines that the unit plan does not comply with the State Disabilities Plan.
(b)    On or before July 1 of each year, each unit of State government shall provide the Department with an evaluation of the unit’s performance in accordance with the unit’s plan developed under subsection (a) of this section.
(c)    The evaluation required under subsection (b) of this section shall:
(1)    assess the unit’s performance against the strategic performance objectives established under subsection (a)(2) of this section; and
(2)    identify and measure:
(i)    consumer satisfaction;
(ii)    gaps in services;
(iii)    numbers of individuals waiting for services; and
(iv)    progress made on achieving performance objectives.
(d)    The Secretary may provide technical assistance to any unit of State government to meet the requirements of this section.
(e)    The Secretary may waive the requirements of this section for any unit of State government.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part IV - Maryland Commission on Disabilities › Section 7-120 - Membership

(a)    The Commission consists of:
(1)    the following members, appointed by the Governor:
(i)    one individual with a physical disability;
(ii)    one individual who has experienced mental illness;
(iii)    two individuals with a developmental disability, including one with an intellectual disability;
(iv)    one individual who is blind;
(v)    one individual who is deaf or hard of hearing;
(vi)    one parent or foster parent of a child with a disability;
(vii)    four members of the general public who have disabilities;
(viii)    three representatives from statewide disability advocacy organizations;
(ix)    one representative from the home health care industry;
(x)    one representative from a statewide organization of providers of services and support for individuals with disabilities;
(xi)    one representative from the Alliance of Local Commissions on Disability; and
(xii)    two representatives from the Board, one of whom shall be selected by the Secretary and one of whom shall be the Secretary of Budget and Management or the designee of the Secretary of Budget and Management;
(2)    one representative from the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;
(3)    one representative from the Maryland House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;
(4)    the State Coordinator for Autism Strategy; and
(5)    one representative from the Governor’s Advisory Board for Telecommunications Relay, appointed by the chair of the Board.
(b)    In making the appointments required under subsection (a)(1) of this section, the Governor shall appoint members from among:
(1)    the geographic regions of the State; and
(2)    diverse backgrounds.
(c)    A majority of the members shall be individuals with disabilities.
(d)    (1)    The term of a member is 3 years.
(2)    The terms of the members are staggered as required by the terms provided for the members of the Commission on October 1, 2007.
(3)    At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(4)    A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(5)    A member may not serve more than two consecutive 3–year terms.
(e)    A member who fails to attend at least 50% of the regularly scheduled meetings of the Commission during any 12–month period shall be considered to have resigned.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part IV - Maryland Commission on Disabilities › Section 7-122 - Compensation; Staff

(a)    A member of the Commission:
(1)    may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but
(2)    if the Secretary approves, is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
(b)    The Department shall provide staff to the Commission as necessary.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part IV - Maryland Commission on Disabilities › Section 7-123 - Duties

Members of the Commission shall:
(1)    advise the Department in carrying out its duties;
(2)    meet at least twice a year in meetings open to the public; and
(3)    serve on one or more subcommittees established by the Secretary to provide guidance to the Department on matters affecting individuals with disabilities, including public policy, outreach, and personal assistance services.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part IV - Maryland Commission on Disabilities › Section 7-124 - Meetings of Subcommittees

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a subcommittee of the Commission created in accordance with § 7–123 of this subtitle shall be considered a public body under § 3–101(h) of the General Provisions Article.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part V - Interagency Disabilities Board; State Disabilities Plan › Section 7-127 - Interagency Disabilities Board -- in General

(a)    There is an Interagency Disabilities Board convened by the Governor.
(b)    The purpose of the Board is to develop the State Disabilities Plan.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part V - Interagency Disabilities Board; State Disabilities Plan › Section 7-128 - Interagency Disabilities Board -- Membership

The Board consists of the following members:
(1)    the Secretary of Disabilities;
(2)    the Secretary of Aging, or the Secretary’s designee;
(3)    the Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s designee;
(4)    the Secretary of Budget and Management, or the Secretary’s designee;
(5)    the Secretary of Health, or the Secretary’s designee;
(6)    the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, or the Secretary’s designee;
(7)    the Secretary of Human Services, or the Secretary’s designee;
(8)    the Secretary of Labor, or the Secretary’s designee;
(9)    the Secretary of Planning, or the Secretary’s designee;
(10)    the State Superintendent of Schools, or the Superintendent’s designee;
(11)    the Secretary of Transportation, or the Secretary’s designee;
(12)    the Deputy Director of the Division of Children and Youth of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services, or the Deputy Director’s designee;
(13)    the Director of the Governor’s Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, or the Director’s designee;
(14)    the Secretary of Juvenile Services, or the Secretary’s designee;
(15)    the Secretary of Public Safety and Correctional Services, or the Secretary’s designee;
(16)    the Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services, or the Executive Director’s designee; and
(17)    representatives from any other unit of State government that the Governor designates.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part V - Interagency Disabilities Board; State Disabilities Plan › Section 7-129 - Interagency Disabilities Board -- Chair

(a)    The Secretary is the chair of the Board.
(b)    The chair shall direct the work of the Board.
(c)    The chair may establish subcommittees of the Board to carry out the duties established under this part.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part V - Interagency Disabilities Board; State Disabilities Plan › Section 7-131 - Interagency Disabilities Board -- Duties

The Board shall:
(1)    provide ongoing examination of the structure and organization of the State’s system of services and support to individuals with disabilities to ensure equal access to support services and resources by individuals with disabilities;
(2)    facilitate the development of performance objectives that will result in a comprehensive, effective, efficient, and integrated service delivery system for individuals with disabilities;
(3)    develop an interagency funding approach to maximize efficiencies and streamline access to services and support for individuals with disabilities;
(4)    formulate policies on legislative issues and, under the direction of the Governor, communicate the policies to the General Assembly; and
(5)    develop the State Disabilities Plan.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 1 - Department of Disabilities › Part V - Interagency Disabilities Board; State Disabilities Plan › Section 7-132 - State Disabilities Plan

(a)    The State Disabilities Plan shall provide for the coordination of support services that:
(1)    ensure compliance with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act and other relevant federal and State provisions intended to protect the civil rights of individuals with disabilities;
(2)    are necessary for individuals with disabilities to achieve maximum participation in the mainstream of the community in the most integrated setting possible; and
(3)    address, on a statewide basis, the improvement of:
(i)    the capacity of communities to support individuals with disabilities with personal attendant care and other long–term care options that are self–directed;
(ii)    the availability of accessible, integrated, and affordable housing options;
(iii)    reliable transportation options;
(iv)    employment and training options, including self–employment and noncongregant competitive opportunities available in an integrated environment in which there are individuals with and without disabilities;
(v)    somatic and behavioral health options;
(vi)    accessible and universally designed technology;
(vii)    support services for children, youth, and their families to enable them to achieve successful learning;
(viii)    family support services, including respite care; and
(ix)    crime control, public safety, and correctional services that appropriately take into account the needs and rights of individuals with disabilities.
(b)    The State Disabilities Plan shall assess the provision of and resources for support services for individuals with disabilities.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 2 - Respite Care for Individuals With Developmental or Functional Disabilities › Section 7-201 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Department” means the Department of Human Services.
(c)    “Respite care” means short–term care:
(1)    of an individual with a developmental or functional disability described under § 7–202 of this subtitle; and
(2)    that is provided either within or outside the individual’s home to give temporary relief to the individual or the individual’s family.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 2 - Respite Care for Individuals With Developmental or Functional Disabilities › Section 7-202 - Individuals With Functional or Developmental Disabilities

(a)    An individual has a functional disability if the individual has a severe, chronic disability that:
(1)    is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or a combination of mental and physical impairments, including a head injury;
(2)    is likely to continue indefinitely;
(3)    results in substantial functional limitations in at least three of the following areas of major life activity:
(i)    self-care;
(ii)    receptive and expressive language;
(iii)    learning;
(iv)    mobility;
(v)    self-direction;
(vi)    capacity for independent living; and
(vii)    economic self-sufficiency; and
(4)    reflects the individual’s need for a combination and sequence of special interdisciplinary or generic care, treatment, or other services that are:
(i)    lifelong or of extended duration; and
(ii)    individually planned and coordinated.
(b)    An individual has a developmental disability if the individual has a functional disability that is manifested before the individual attains the age of 22 years.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 2 - Respite Care for Individuals With Developmental or Functional Disabilities › Section 7-203 - Respite Care Program

(a)    (1)    There is a Respite Care Program in the Department.
(2)    The purpose of the Program is to provide respite care services in the State.
(b)    The Department shall provide respite care services through:
(1)    local departments of social services; or
(2)    contracts with private nonprofit community-based providers.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 2 - Respite Care for Individuals With Developmental or Functional Disabilities › Section 7-204 - Limitations on Respite Care

Subject to the State budget, within a fiscal year an individual may receive:
(1)    on an hourly basis, up to 24 hours of respite care provided in periods of less than 10 hours in any 24-hour period; and
(2)    on a daily basis, up to 14 days of respite care provided in periods of 10 or more hours in any 24-hour period.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 3 - Maryland Commission on Caregiving › Section 7-303 - Membership

(a)    (1)    The Commission consists of the following members:
(i)    one member of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;
(ii)    one member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House; and
(iii)    the following members appointed by the Governor:
1.    two representatives from the Department of Human Services;
2.    three representatives from the Maryland Department of Health;
3.    one representative from the Department of Aging;
4.    one representative from an area agency on aging;
5.    one representative from the Department of Disabilities;
6.    one representative from the Maryland Respite Care Coalition;
7.    two consumers of respite care services;
8.    three family caregivers; and
9.    three representatives of organizations that provide or have interest or expertise in respite care services.
(2)    In appointing members to the Commission, to the extent possible, the Governor shall consider groups representing individuals:
(i)    with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders;
(ii)    with developmental disabilities;
(iii)    with physical disabilities;
(iv)    with chronic illnesses;
(v)    with mental or emotional conditions that require supervision;
(vi)    who are vulnerable to abuse or neglect;
(vii)    with disabilities, disorders, or conditions affecting the entire lifespans of the individuals; and
(viii)    who reflect the diversity of the State.
(b)    The term of a member of the Commission is 3 years.
(c)    The Governor shall appoint a chair of the Commission from among the members.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 3 - Maryland Commission on Caregiving › Section 7-304 - Staff; Compensation

(a)    (1)    The Department shall provide staff for the Commission.
(2)    An individual from the Department shall serve as executive director of the Commission.
(b)    A member of the Commission:
(1)    may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but
(2)    is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 3 - Maryland Commission on Caregiving › Section 7-305 - Duties

(a)    The Commission shall:
(1)    solicit and gather concerns of caregivers by:
(i)    conducting surveys;
(ii)    holding public hearings;
(iii)    establishing a telephone hotline for public access; and
(iv)    other appropriate means;
(2)    develop and distribute to interested parties a handbook of current respite care and other family caregiver services available in the State;
(3)    review successful respite care programs in other states;
(4)    develop a model family caregiver support program that incorporates best practices from existing programs in this and other states;
(5)    provide ongoing analysis of best practices in family caregiver support programs in this and other states;
(6)    coordinate activities of existing and proposed family caregiver support services among State and local units;
(7)    research available funding sources and explore possibilities for additional funds;
(8)    identify unmet needs and priorities for additional funds; and
(9)    monitor implementation of the Commission’s recommendations.
(b)    The Commission shall report annually on its activities and recommendations regarding family caregiver support services to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 4 - Attendant Care Program › Section 7-401 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Attendant care services” means any of the following services for an eligible individual, which are certified as necessary by an attending physician or by a registered nurse:
(1)    dressing;
(2)    preparing food and assisting with eating;
(3)    bathing and personal hygiene;
(4)    assisting with routine bodily functions, including bowel and urinary care;
(5)    moving into, out of, or turning in bed;
(6)    laundering and other clothing care; and
(7)    cleaning house and performing other services of daily care, including shopping and transportation, that the Department and the eligible individual request.
(c)    “Department” means the Department of Disabilities.
(d)    “Eligible individual” means an individual who:
(1)    is at least 18 years old and under the age of 65 years at the time of the initial eligibility determination; and
(2)    has a severe chronic or permanent physical disability that precludes or significantly impairs the individual’s independent performance of essential activities of daily living, self–care, or mobility.
(e)    “Financial assistance” means a payment the Department makes to an eligible individual for attendant care services.
(f)    “Program” means the Attendant Care Program.
(g)    “Secretary” means the Secretary of Disabilities.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 4 - Attendant Care Program › Section 7-402 - Established; Purpose; Sliding Payment Scale

(a)    (1)    There is an Attendant Care Program in the Department.
(2)    The purpose of the Program is to provide financial assistance to eligible individuals for attendant care services.
(b)    The Department shall provide financial assistance in accordance with a sliding payment scale that the Department establishes by regulation for each category of eligible individuals described in § 7–404(a) of this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 4 - Attendant Care Program › Section 7-404 - Participation in Program

(a)    (1)    The Department shall ensure that at any given time at least 50% of the eligible individuals receiving financial assistance under the Program are:
(i)    gainfully employed;
(ii)    actively seeking employment; or
(iii)    attending an institution of postsecondary or higher education, as defined in § 10–101 of the Education Article.
(2)    The remainder of the eligible individuals receiving financial assistance under the Program shall be individuals who:
(i)    reside in a nursing facility or similar institution licensed to provide chronic or intermediate care and who will be deinstitutionalized as a result of the Program; or
(ii)    are certified by an attending physician or certified nurse practitioner as being at risk of placement in a nursing facility or similar institution licensed to provide chronic or intermediate care if attendant care services are not received in the community.
(b)    (1)    Subject to the availability of funds, the Secretary may waive the proportional requirement of subsection (a)(1) of this section in the event there is a waiting list of eligible individuals described in subsection (a)(2) of this section.
(2)    The Secretary may adopt regulations to establish priorities and procedures for a waiting list of eligible individuals.
(3)    An eligible individual receiving financial assistance may not be removed from the Program to achieve the proportional requirement under subsection (a)(1) of this section.
(c)    Financial assistance provided under the Program may not duplicate any other State or federal assistance for attendant care services that an eligible individual receives.
(d)    The Department shall limit participation in the Program to the number of eligible individuals who can be served with the funds appropriated for the Program in the State budget.
(e)    Each year, the Department shall review the eligibility of each individual receiving financial assistance.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 4 - Attendant Care Program › Section 7-405 - Funding; Administration

(a)    The Program shall be funded as provided in the State budget.
(b)    The Department may:
(1)    administer the Program directly; or
(2)    enter into a contract with a private organization to administer and operate the Program.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 5 - Ethan Saylor Alliance for Self-Advocates as Educators › Section 7-501 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Alliance” means the Ethan Saylor Alliance for Self–Advocates as Educators.
(c)    “Community inclusion” means circumstances in which individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities are welcomed, supported, and included in all aspects of society.
(d)    “Developmental disability” has the meaning stated in § 7–101 of the Health – General Article.
(e)    “Intellectual disability” has the meaning stated in §  7–101 of the Health – General Article.
(f)    “Steering Committee” means the Steering Committee for the Ethan Saylor Alliance for Self–Advocates as Educators.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 5 - Ethan Saylor Alliance for Self-Advocates as Educators › Section 7-502 - General Consideration

(a)    There is an Ethan Saylor Alliance for Self–Advocates as Educators in the Department.
(b)    The purpose of the Alliance is to advance the community inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities by preparing and supporting self–advocates to play a central role in educating persons about appropriate and effective interactions with individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities.
(c)    The Alliance shall:
(1)    be guided by the Steering Committee;
(2)    build on the work of the Commission for Effective Community Inclusion of Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities by prioritizing the training needs of law enforcement officers;
(3)    connect law enforcement trainers with:
(i)    self–advocate educators; or
(ii)    entities that use self–advocate educators in a central role when providing training;
(4)    identify and support the development of self–advocate educators;
(5)    identify resources needed to prepare and support self–advocate educators; and
(6)    promote collaborative efforts that support community inclusion.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 5 - Ethan Saylor Alliance for Self-Advocates as Educators › Section 7-503 - Steering Committee

(a)    There is a Steering Committee for the Alliance.
(b)    The Steering Committee shall include the following members:
(1)    the Secretary, or the Secretary’s designee;
(2)    the Superintendent of the State Police, or the Superintendent’s designee;
(3)    the Executive Director of the Police and Correctional Training Commissions, or the Executive Director’s designee;
(4)    the Deputy Secretary for Developmental Disabilities in the Maryland Department of Health, or the Deputy Secretary’s designee; and
(5)    the following individuals, appointed by the Secretary:
(i)    a representative of the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council;
(ii)    two representatives of community–based organizations that support people with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities;
(iii)    four members of the public with knowledge of intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities, including at least two self–advocates and a family member of an individual with an intellectual disability or developmental disability; and
(iv)    other members deemed necessary to carry out the work of the Steering Committee.
(c)    A member appointed by the Secretary:
(1)    serves for a term of 3 years and until a successor is appointed and qualifies; and
(2)    may be reappointed.
(d)    A member of the Steering Committee:
(1)    may not receive compensation as a member of the Steering Committee; but
(2)    is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
(e)    The Steering Committee shall:
(1)    develop parameters for the Alliance, including expected outcomes for and evaluation of the Alliance;
(2)    select entities to operate the Alliance through a competitive process;
(3)    provide general oversight of the Alliance;
(4)    approve the budget for the Alliance;
(5)    review the Alliance’s activities and outcomes;
(6)    develop recommendations for sustainability and expansion of the Alliance, including:
(i)    costs of sustaining and expanding the Alliance;
(ii)    potential sources of funding for the Alliance; and
(iii)    compensation and supports for self–advocate educators; and
(7)    review, or request that the Alliance review, the content and monitor the implementation of the training objectives and curriculum adopted by the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission for a community inclusion training program:
(i)    at least once every 4 years; or
(ii)    more frequently if requested by the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 5 - Ethan Saylor Alliance for Self-Advocates as Educators › Section 7-504 - Funding

(a)    Subject to subsection (b) of this section, the operation of the Alliance shall be supported by:
(1)    appropriations provided in the annual State budget;
(2)    grants or other assistance from federal, State, or local government; and
(3)    any other money made available to the Alliance from any public or private source.
(b)    The operation of the Alliance is subject to the limitations of the State budget.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 6 - Assistive Technology Loan Program › Section 7-601 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    (1)    “Assistive technology” means any item, equipment, or device that is designed to enable an individual with a disability to become more independent or a more productive member of the community with an improved quality of life.
(2)    “Assistive technology” includes wheelchairs, motorized scooters, Braille equipment, voice simulation systems, scanners, assistive listening devices, telecommunications devices for the deaf, augmentative communication systems, environmental control systems, computers and adaptive peripherals, building modifications for accessibility, motor vehicles, and vehicle modifications.
(c)    “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Program.
(d)    “Department” means the Department of Disabilities.
(e)    “Fund” means the Assistive Technology Loan Fund.
(f)    “Program” means the Assistive Technology Loan Program.
(g)    “Secretary” means the Secretary of Disabilities.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 6 - Assistive Technology Loan Program › Section 7-605 - Board of Directors -- Membership

(a)    The Board consists of:
(1)    the Secretary of Information Technology or the Secretary’s designee;
(2)    a representative from the Maryland Department of Health, Developmental Disabilities Administration, appointed by the Secretary of Health;
(3)    a representative of the State Department of Education Division of Rehabilitation Services, appointed by the State Superintendent of Schools; and
(4)    eight members of the public appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.
(b)    Of the eight members of the public appointed by the Governor:
(1)    four shall have significant experience in finance, accounting, investment management, or consumer lending; and
(2)    four shall have disabilities or assist individuals with disabilities.
(c)    (1)    The term of a member appointed by the Governor is 4 years.
(2)    At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(3)    A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(4)    A member appointed by the Governor may not serve more than two terms.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Human Services › Title 7 - Individuals With Disabilities › Subtitle 6 - Assistive Technology Loan Program › Section 7-607 - Board of Directors -- Quorum; Meetings; Compensation; Staff

(a)    Six members of the Board are a quorum.
(b)    The Board shall meet at least quarterly or more often as necessary to carry out its duties efficiently.
(c)    A member:
(1)    may not receive compensation as a member of the Board; but
(2)    is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations as provided in the State budget.
(d)    Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, a member may not financially benefit directly or indirectly from the activities of the Fund.
(e)    The Department shall provide staff to the Board.