MD HB699

Expands Maryland's definition of "honorable discharge" for state veteran benefits to include veterans who received less-than-honorable discharges due to PTSD, traumatic brain injury, or military sexual trauma diagnosed/disclosed at VA facilities

Retains existing provisions treating discharges based on sexual orientation or gender identity as honorable for state benefit purposes

Authorizes the Department of Veterans and Military Families to determine eligibility for state benefits based on federal criteria established in 38 C.F.R. § 3.12

Requires veterans seeking these benefits to submit documentation to the Secretary of Veterans and Military Families explaining the basis for their discharge

Takes effect October 1, 2025; approved by Governor Wes Moore on May 6, 2025