MD SB809

Office of the Comptroller, with Department of Human Services assistance, must conduct a feasibility study on establishing the Supporting Our Caregiver Infrastructure Program to provide universal monthly payments to caregivers for each dependent they care for.

Qualified family members include individuals 60+ years old, those with Alzheimer's or related disorders, children with developmental/functional disabilities, and adults with developmental/functional disabilities—all requiring certified assistance with daily living activities.

Study must examine economic impacts including potential increased labor force participation, enhanced tax revenues, decreased public benefits participation, and overall state economic vitality.

Department of Human Services must identify federal, state, and local funding sources; administrative and operating costs; and appropriate stipend amounts, in consultation with the Department of Aging, Department of Health, and local aging/disabilities agencies.

Final report due to legislative committees by July 1, 2027; the Act takes effect July 1, 2026 and automatically sunsets on June 30, 2028.