Commission to Study African American Civil War Sailors in Maryland

HB 170 establishes a commission to study the history of African American sailors who served in the Union Navy during the Civil War in Maryland. The commission, composed of 7 appointed members including state education, archives, and heritage representatives, will research their service records, honors, and contributions. It must submit findings and recommendations for a memorial dedicated to these sailors by December 1, 2026. The bill creates no immediate policy changes but directs the commission to study this historical legacy and propose memorial details.