Maryland unveils new name for Department of Veteran Affairs

The Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs has officially changed its name to the Department of Veterans and Military Families.

The inclusion of “Military Families” in the department’s official name reflects the diverse community it serves including dependents, veteran caregivers and survivors.

"Before I deployed to Afghanistan, I thought military service was toughest on our soldiers. After I deployed, I realized it was toughest on our families," said Gov. Wes Moore, who is an Army combat veteran. "Our military families sacrifice everything so their loved ones can serve; they are just as much a part of the American story as those in the armed forces. This important name change recognizes that fundamental truth."

The departmental name change resulted from legislation championed by State Sen. Dawn Gile and Del. Andrew Pruski.

The legislation not only renamed the department but also mandated the appointment of a Deputy Secretary of Military Family Policy and Programs, who will be responsible for overseeing agency strategy, policy and initiatives to respond to the unique needs of Maryland’s military and veteran families.

“Since the founding of the department in 1999, military families have always been included in our mission statement,” said Secretary Tony Woods. “Changing our name better reflects our mission and serves as an important reminder that military families – including dependents, veteran caregivers and survivors – play a vital role in service to the nation and they have an advocate in our department to support them through life’s transitions.”

Maryland’s Department of Veterans Affairs mission is to assist veterans, active duty service members, their families and dependents in securing benefits earned through military service.

The Department of Veterans and Military Families will work closely with the newly established Maryland Commission on Veterans and Military Families to implement policy recommendations dedicated to veterans and military families.

The bill to establish the Maryland Commission on Veterans and Military Families was adopted in April.

The commission’s job will be to study and make recommendations for developing and implementing a statewide strategic plan to make Maryland the best state for veterans and military families. The Commission will consult with the Office of Military and Federal Affairs and the Maryland Military Installation Council, and identify key performance indicators to assess the quality of life for veterans and military families in Maryland compared to other states.

The commission is required to report its findings and recommendations to the governor and the General Assembly by December 1, 2024.

“As we celebrate these legislative triumphs, I want to also recognize the tireless advocacy of veterans, family members, caretakers, survivors, VSOs, and nonprofits whose voices helped pass legislation that will make Maryland the best state in the nation to be a member of the military-connected community,” said Woods.