§ 9-3303
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/md/state-government/9-3303·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
§9–3303.
Subject to the availability of funding, the Office shall:
(1)establish a network of neighborhood–based opportunity centers that provide immigration services to immigrants;
(2)increase access to ESOL programs, including by engaging nonprofit organizations and other qualified providers of ESOL programs;
(3)assist immigrants in matters relating to immigration status, including assisting with the naturalization process and applications for deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA);
(4)connect immigrants to:
(i)business resources that use the immigrants’ skills;
(ii)employment referral programs; and
(iii)other workforce development programs;
(5)develop and leverage immigrants’ skills to benefit the immigrants’ communities and the State;
(6)strengthen the connection between immigrants and the immigrants’ communities through civic engagement;
(7)reduce exploitation of immigrants;
(8)establish a toll–free, multilingual hotline and a website for purposes including:
(i)disseminating information about the programs and services offered by the Office;
(ii)referring for services; and
(iii)receiving complaints relating to fraud and other related crimes against immigrants;
(9)ensure that individuals referred by the Office are directed to persons who are:
(i)in compliance with Title 14, Subtitle 33 of the Commercial Law Article; or
(ii)authorized by the federal Office of Legal Access Programs;
(10)using information developed by the Office through the hotline established under this section, assist law enforcement in combating crimes against immigrants;
(11)advise the Governor and Director concerning matters affecting immigrants in the State in order to promote and encourage the full participation of immigrants in the State’s civic and economic life;
(12)coordinate with other State agencies and otherwise use the resources of the State to serve the needs of immigrants; and
(13)encourage and assist local governments in the development of activities to enhance civic engagement among immigrants and in immigrant communities.