Maryland 2025 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB772

Introduced
1/31/25  

Caption

Higher Education - Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program - Eligibility

Impact

The bill's expansion of eligibility criteria will allow a broader range of applicants to apply for scholarships. Specifically, it includes children and spouses of military personnel who have been deemed eligible for veterans' educational assistance due to service-related disabilities. This change is anticipated to enhance educational opportunities for dependents who may be struggling to afford higher education costs, thereby supporting their academic pursuits and eventual integration into the workforce.

Summary

Senate Bill 772, titled the Higher Education - Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program - Eligibility, seeks to expand the eligibility criteria for scholarships offered under the Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program. This program is designed to benefit military personnel, public safety workers, and their dependents by providing financial assistance for postsecondary education. The bill aims to ensure that more individuals affected by military service, including those related to veterans with certain disabilities, are afforded the opportunity to access these educational benefits.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the bill's funding and resource allocation. Opponents could argue that broadening eligibility criteria might strain the funding for the scholarship program, potentially leading to insufficient resources for all applicants if demand exceeds expectations. Additionally, discussions about the impact on existing scholarship recipients and whether the changes could lead to increased competition among applicants may emerge. Overall, the bill highlights the ongoing dialogue surrounding veterans' benefits and the support available to military families.

Companion Bills

MD HB980

Crossfiled Higher Education - Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program - Eligibility

Previously Filed As

MD HB629

Higher Education – Edward T. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program – Surviving Spouses of Service Members

MD SB886

Higher Education - Edward T. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program - Surviving Spouses of Service Members

MD SB1101

Higher Education - Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program - Alterations

MD HB529

Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program - Veterans - Number of Eligible Recipients

MD SB1178

Higher Education - Douglas J. J. Peters Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship - Repeal of Service Terminal Date

MD SB959

Higher Education - Maryland 529 Program - Reform

MD HB1290

Higher Education - Maryland 529 Program - Reform

MD HB393

Higher Education - Maryland Dent-Care Program - Eligibility

MD SB334

Higher Education - Maryland Dent-Care Program - Eligibility

MD HB901

Higher Education - Part-Time Senatorial and Delegate Scholarships - Alterations

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.