Maryland launches joint forces initiative for veterans and military families support

The Maryland General Assembly's Appropriations Committee convened on February 28, 2025, to discuss key initiatives and budgetary matters concerning the Department of Veterans and Military Families (DVMF) and the Office of the Correctional Ombudsman (OCO).

The session began with a presentation from the DVMF, led by Secretary Tony Woods. He highlighted the department's Maryland Joint Forces Initiative, launched in November 2023, which focuses on five critical areas: employment, food and housing, education, health, and volunteer services for veterans and military families. Currently, 20 organizations are participating in this initiative, and several events have already taken place. The Department of Legislative Services (DLS) recommended that the committee adopt a narrative requesting a progress report on this initiative.

Secretary Woods also provided an overview of the department's accomplishments over the past year, including processing over 5,000 VA claims, resulting in nearly $44.7 million in direct payments to veterans. He noted improvements in service delivery, such as reduced wait times and the launch of an online application for the Maryland Veteran Trust Fund, which has awarded over $500,000 in grants. Additionally, the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home achieved joint accreditation, improving its quality rating.

During the discussion, committee members raised questions regarding the costs associated with assisted living at Charlotte Hall and the potential for new housing developments for veterans. Secretary Woods assured members that the department is committed to providing affordable options for veterans and is actively working on a new facility in Sykesville, Carroll County. The design and engineering phase is expected to be completed by June 30, 2025, although funding challenges at the federal level remain a concern.

Following the DVMF presentation, the committee transitioned to the OCO, which is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services and the Department of Juvenile Services. Catherine Barber presented the fiscal 2026 budget analysis for the OCO, emphasizing its role in ensuring the integrity of operations within these departments.

The meeting concluded without further questions for the DVMF or OCO representatives, marking a productive session focused on enhancing services for Maryland's veterans and oversight of correctional facilities. The committee's next steps will include reviewing the progress reports and budget proposals discussed during the meeting.