MD HB384

Establishes the Maryland Disability Service Animal Program within the Department of Disabilities to connect Maryland residents with disabilities (as defined under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act) with trained service animals

Requires the Department to select at least one nonprofit training entity that is 501(c)(3) tax-exempt to develop training protocols, select program participants, match participants with appropriate service animals, and facilitate training

Creates the Maryland Disability Service Animal Program Fund as a special, nonlapsing fund to pay nonprofit training entities and cover administrative costs, funded by donations, state appropriations, and a required $25,000 annual appropriation from the Governor

Allows nonprofit training entities to disqualify participants who present a danger to themselves, others, or the service animal, or who fail to meet training requirements; participants may voluntarily withdraw at any time

Implementation is contingent on the Department of Disabilities certifying by October 1, 2026 that it has sufficient staff to administer the program; if certification is not made, the Act becomes null and void