MD HB691

Expands the definition of "veteran" and related benefits to include all uniformed services (Public Health Service, NOAA, Coast and Geodetic Survey), not just the armed forces, aligning Maryland law with federal definitions under 37 U.S.C. § 101 and 38 U.S.C. § 101

Extends state personnel reemployment rights, seniority protections, and reinstatement benefits to employees returning from service in any uniformed service branch, with a 90-day application window after discharge

Provides a 10-point hiring credit on civil service exams for veterans, eligible spouses of active service members, and surviving spouses, plus 2 additional points for former prisoners of war

Extends income tax subtractions for military pay (first $15,000 for overseas service) and military retirement income ($12,500 for those under 55; $20,000 for those 55 and older) to all uniformed services members

Takes effect July 1, 2025, with income tax provisions applying to taxable years after December 31, 2024, and property tax provisions applying to taxable years after June 30, 2025