In this article the following words have the meanings indicated. “Active duty” has the meaning stated in § 9–901 of the State Government Article. “Active service member” has the meaning stated in § 9–901 of the State Government Article. “Armed forces” has the meaning stated in § 9–901 of the State Government Article. “Informational meeting” means a meeting, open to the public, at which the applicant or the Department of Natural Resources presents information concerning a permit or certificate application. An informational meeting is not a contested case hearing nor an agency hearing under § 10–202(d) of the State Government Article. “Public hearing” means a meeting, open to the public, at which the Department of Natural Resources receives oral and written comments concerning a decision to issue or deny a permit or certificate. A public hearing is not a contested case hearing nor an agency hearing under § 10–202(d) of the State Government Article. “Service member” has the meaning stated in § 9–901 of the State Government Article. “Uniformed services” has the meaning stated in § 9–901 of the State Government Article. “Veteran” has the meaning stated in § 9–901 of the State Government Article.