In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated. “Assistive technology device” means any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. “Assistive technology service” means any service that assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. “Department” means the Department of Disabilities. “Fund” means the Assistive Technology Services Fund. “Program” means the Maryland Assistive Technology Program. “Secretary” means the Secretary of Disabilities.

There is a Maryland Assistive Technology Program in the Department. The purpose of the Program is to: increase access to assistive technology devices and assistive technology services for individuals with disabilities; support the State’s efforts to improve the provision of assistive technology to individuals with disabilities of all ages, including underrepresented populations, through comprehensive statewide programs of technology–related assistance; ensure statewide access to assistive technology lending libraries that allow individuals with disabilities and those supporting individuals with disabilities to learn about, try, and borrow assistive technology devices through short–term loans; and implement activities required by federal grants, including funding authorized under the federal 21st Century Assistive Technology Act. The Program shall provide access to or conduct assistive technology services that include any activity described in the federal 21st Century Assistive Technology Act.

There is an Assistive Technology Services Fund in the Department. The purpose of the Fund is to receive revenue from assistive technology services provided by the Program, including: assistive technology assessments; assistive technology training; digital accessibility training; digital accessibility website evaluations; and digital accessibility remediation services. The Secretary, through the Program, shall administer the Fund. The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article. The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund. The Fund consists of: revenue distributed to the Fund under subsection (b) of this section; money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund; interest earnings; and any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund. The Fund may be used only to support the operations of the Program, including the purchase of assistive technology devices. The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested. Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund. Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget. Money expended from the Fund for the Program is supplemental to and is not intended to take the place of funding that otherwise would be appropriated for the Program.

This subtitle may not be construed to establish an entitlement program.

The Secretary may adopt regulations to implement this subtitle.