# Human Services (GHU)

## Title 7. Individuals With Disabilities

### Subtitle 12. Maryland Assistive Technology Program

#### Section 7-1205

(a) Beginning July 1, 2026, the Office shall be responsible for implementation and oversight of the Maryland as a Model Employer Initiative.

(b) The purpose of the Initiative shall include:

  (1) promoting the recruitment, hiring, retention, and career advancement of people with disabilities across State government;

  (2) conducting and coordinating outreach to job seekers with disabilities and State government to encourage participation in the Initiative;

  (3) developing and delivering trainings to State agencies and units addressing best practices, resources, and relevant federal and State laws pertaining to the employment of people with disabilities;

  (4) assisting State government agencies and units to attract qualified job seekers with disabilities to available positions;

  (5) promoting access to and acquisition of assistive technology for new State employees with disabilities;

  (6) evaluating State employment practices and policies and making recommendations regarding ways to reduce barriers for job seekers and employees with disabilities;

  (7) collecting from each unit of State government, as part of the plans required under Sec. 7-116 of this title, performance goals related to hiring and retention efforts for employees with disabilities and any data deemed necessary by the Secretary to demonstrate performance outcomes; and

  (8) reporting on the Initiative's outcomes in compliance with subsection (c) of this section.

(c) On or before December 1, 2026, and each December 1 thereafter, the Office shall report to the Governor and the General Assembly, in accordance with Sec. 2-1257 of the State Government Article, on:

  (1) progress and outcomes of the Initiative; and

  (2) recommendations developed by the Initiative for continued improvement of State government employment practices for people with disabilities.

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