The signing ceremony took place in front of an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft, with members of the Maryland Guard in attendance.
Maryland Governor signs Healthcare For Heroes Act as part of veteran-related bills
Maryland Governor Wes Moore visited the 175th Wing at Martin State Air National Guard Base in Maryland, where he signed several veteran-related bills, including the Healthcare For Heroes Act.
The Healthcare For Heroes Act of 2023 establishes the Tricare Premium Reimbursement Program within the Maryland Military Department. This program will offer reimbursements for monthly premiums to members of the Maryland National Guard who utilize the Department of Defense-provided Tricare Reserve Select.
Governor Moore emphasized the importance of supporting the military community, whether they are active duty, reservists, or veterans. He stated that Maryland should strive to be the best state in the nation to serve in uniform and to live after discharge. The bipartisan legislation signed by the governor aims to improve the lives of the men and women who have made significant sacrifices for their country.
Rawls expressed his gratitude for being part of such a historic event
Prior to signing the bills, Governor Moore administered the oath of enlistment to Zion Rawls, who will serve in the Maryland Air National Guard’s 104th Fighter Squadron as an aviation resource manager.
The bill signings were attended by Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson, Maryland House Speaker Adrienne Jones, Maryland Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Drew Dougherty, and Maryland Army National Guard Col. Andrew Collins, among other Guard members.
One of the bills signed, the Keep Our Heroes Home Act, will increase the military retirement income tax exemption for veterans, spouses, and individuals receiving military pensions in Maryland.
Brig. Gen. Janeen Birckhead, adjutant general of the Maryland Army National Guard, commended the state’s recognition of the contributions made by soldiers, airmen, and their families. She expressed pride in serving a state that values its service members and takes steps to support them through such legislation.
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