In an effort to further support and protect those serving in the military, Maryland lawmakers have passed new legislation aimed at strengthening military law in the state. The bill, officially known as the Maryland Military Protections Act of 2026, includes several key provisions designed to address issues facing service members and their families.One of the most significant aspects of the new law is the establishment of a Military Legal Assistance Program, which will provide free legal services to active duty service members, veterans, and their families. This program will offer assistance with a variety of legal matters, including family law issues, landlord-tenant disputes, and consumer rights violations.Additionally, the Maryland Military Protections Act includes provisions to protect service members from financial exploitation. Under the new law, financial institutions are prohibited from charging service members excessive fees or interest rates on loans or credit cards. Lenders are also required to notify service members of their rights under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, which provides legal protections for service members during active duty.Another key provision of the legislation addresses housing discrimination against service members. Landlords in Maryland are now prohibited from discriminating against service members based on their military status. This includes refusing to rent to service members, imposing additional fees or restrictions, or evicting service members without proper cause.The Maryland Military Protections Act of 2026 has been widely praised by military advocacy groups and service members alike. Colonel Emily Turner, who serves at Fort Meade, expressed her gratitude for the new law, stating, "This legislation will provide much-needed support and protection for service members and their families. It's reassuring to know that our state is committed to upholding the rights of those who serve."Governor Sarah Thompson, who signed the bill into law, also hailed its passage as a major step forward for military rights in Maryland. "Our service members make tremendous sacrifices to protect our nation, and it is only fitting that we provide them with the support and protections they deserve," Governor Thompson said in a statement.The Maryland Military Protections Act of 2026 will go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving service members and their families access to crucial legal protections and support. With this new legislation in place, Maryland is taking important strides to ensure that its service members are able to serve their country with the knowledge that their rights are being safeguarded.