MD HB982

Lowers the age threshold for foster care tuition exemption eligibility from 13 years old to 8 years old for individuals who were placed into guardianship, adopted, or reunited with parents after residing in out-of-home placement for at least 1 year

Expands access to free tuition at Maryland public colleges and universities for more former foster youth who exited foster care at younger ages

Maintains existing eligibility criteria requiring enrollment by age 25, pursuit of a vocational certificate or associate's/bachelor's degree, and filing for federal and State financial aid

Preserves tuition exemption eligibility for younger siblings concurrently placed into guardianship or adoption by the same family

Effective date: July 1, 2026