MD HB623

Establishes the Purple Star Colleges Program to recognize institutions of higher education and private career schools that provide strong services and support for military-connected students, including service members, veterans, and their spouses and dependents

Requires participating colleges to designate a uniformed services liaison staff member to identify military-connected students, serve as their point of contact, and assist with their transition to the college

Mandates colleges maintain an accessible webpage with resources for military-connected students, including information on enrollment, academic planning, and counseling services

Requires colleges to maintain a student-led transition program for military-connected students and offer professional development for staff on issues related to these students

Maryland Higher Education Commission will administer the program and adopt regulations in consultation with the Maryland College Collaboration for Student Veterans Commission; effective July 1, 2026