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Bill would let Maryland military department use STAR funds to support Guard apprenticeships
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Summary
Brig. Gen. Andrew Collins told the committee HB232 would allow the Maryland Military Department to reimburse National Guard members for apprenticeship costs (PPE, tools, licensing) and to use the existing STAR tuition-assistance program to support state-certified apprenticeships; witnesses said the bill has no fiscal impact.
Brigadier General Andrew Collins, deputy adjutant general for the Maryland Military Department, asked the Appropriations Committee to approve House Bill 232 to extend state tuition-assistance support to National Guard members enrolled in state-certified apprenticeship programs.
"The statutory change would enable the Maryland military department to support service members by reimbursing career related overhead expenses," Collins said, specifically naming reimbursement for "personal protective equipment, tools, certification or licensing fees, and trade required equipment and materials." Collins also said HB232 would allow the use of existing state tuition-assistance reimbursement (known as STAR) to directly support apprenticeship participation.
Collins framed the bill as aligned with administration priorities to increase workforce participation and reduce underemployment, and he told the committee the legislation "does not have a fiscal impact." He asked for a favorable report and was available for questions; the committee had no substantive follow-ups during the hearing.
Next steps: Sponsor requested a committee favorable report; the record shows no formal vote during this hearing.
