MD SB518

Establishes the Maryland Financial Empowerment Center Network Pilot Program within the Office of the Comptroller to create a statewide network of financial empowerment centers across different regions

Centers will provide free one-on-one financial counseling and coaching on increasing savings, paying down debt, accessing banking, and improving credit scores

Services must be available in English, Spanish, and any other languages required by the Comptroller's office

Financial counselors must complete training meeting or exceeding standards developed by the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund

Governor must include appropriations in the annual budget for fiscal years 2028 and 2029; the pilot program takes effect October 1, 2026 and automatically sunsets on September 30, 2029