MD SB1040

Establishes an Expedited Hiring Program in the Department of Budget and Management to fast-track hiring of former federal employees into vacant state positions, with a goal of completing recruitment within 40 days

Eligible applicants must have served in the federal government in any capacity (including probationary periods), left federal service after January 15, 2025, and possess relevant experience for the state position

Requires the program to develop guidance on aligning state job titles with federal equivalents, conduct marketing and recruitment, rate applicant qualifications, and refer candidates to other state openings

Authorizes the Secretary to implement the program in phases focusing first on critical and hard-to-fill positions, contract with outside entities for assistance, and adopt regulations to expand eligibility to former federal contractors

Designated as an emergency measure taking effect immediately upon enactment and automatically expiring on April 30, 2026