Maryland connects students, agencies, and businesses through AI programs

The University System of Maryland must coordinate statewide artificial intelligence efforts and establish regional hubs. The Partnership works with state agencies, higher education institutions, the Maryland Small Business Development Center, and local workforce boards. The hubs connect small businesses with resources and provide skills training to individuals at no charge. The hubs prioritize artificial intelligence but may cover other sectors when appropriate. The Department of Labor may collaborate only to the extent that doing so fits its priorities and resources. The Partnership must develop a strategic plan by December 1, 2026, and report progress each year starting December 1, 2027. The pilot hub deadline is December 15, but the printed text gives conflicting years.

The University System of Maryland establishes a fellowship matching students with state agencies for artificial intelligence projects. The fellowship matches students enrolled in public higher education institutions with state agencies. A state agency may repurpose funds to support the fellowship only with approval from the Department of Budget and Management.

The University System of Maryland establishes an Artificial Intelligence Incubation Lab to help state agencies develop and test AI tools. The Lab helps state agencies find uses for AI, develop prototypes, and manage risks. The Lab may operate only under an agreement between the University System of Maryland and the Department of Budget and Management. The Department of Information Technology must provide policy guidance and may provide funds for the Lab.

Morgan State University's AI center supports state agencies and leads research when requested. The Center supports state agencies on productive, secure, and ethical uses of artificial intelligence. The Governor’s AI Subcabinet may request research from the Center each year. For each request, the Center must report its research and any conclusions or recommendations by December 1 of the following year.

The law adds artificial intelligence to training and scholarship programs for students. The Cyber Warrior Diversity Program operates at six named colleges and universities. The scholarship program serves eligible in-state students at approved institutions. The scholarship is for students pursuing programs that provide core skills directly relevant to cybersecurity or artificial intelligence.