# Human Services (GHU)

## Title 6. Community Services

### Subtitle 7. Citizenship Promotion Program

#### Section 6-701

In this subtitle, "Program" means the Citizenship Promotion Program.

#### Section 6-702

There is a Citizenship Promotion Program in the Department.

#### Section 6-703

The purposes of the Program are:

(1) to encourage and assist eligible foreign-born residents to become naturalized citizens of the United States and active participants in the civic life of Maryland;

(2) to increase the number and proportion of eligible foreign-born residents who become citizens of the United States; and

(3) to encourage foreign-born residents who become citizens to be involved in our democratic institutions.

#### Section 6-704

In accordance with the State budget, the Program shall:

(1) encourage eligible residents to learn English;

(2) encourage eligible residents to become naturalized citizens of the United States;

(3) inform eligible residents about the rights and responsibilities of citizens, the process of naturalization, and the availability of citizenship services;

(4) make available or increase the availability of instruction in:

  (i) English as a second language;

  (ii) United States history; and

  (iii) citizenship preparation;

(5) make available or increase the availability of assistance in completing applications for naturalization;

(6) establish an effective connection to nonpartisan voter registration efforts;

(7) encourage the involvement of new citizens in democratic institutions; and

(8) work with federal, State, and local units of government and organizations to respond to the need for citizenship services in the State.

#### Section 6-705

Funding for the Program shall be as provided in the State budget, not exceeding $100,000 each year.

#### Section 6-706

The Department shall adopt regulations and policies to carry out the Program.

#### Section 6-707

All executive units of the State shall cooperate with the Department to implement the regulations and policies of the Program.

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Md. Code Ann., Hum. Servs. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)