Promoting Choice, Self-Determination & Equal Access
The Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) is a consumer-controlled advisory body dedicated to advancing independent living policies and expanding community integration for all Marylanders with disabilities.
Advancing community inclusion, independent living, and self-determination statewide
The Maryland SILC partners with Centers for Independent Living, state agencies, and community advocates to ensure equal opportunities for all.
Serving all 24 Maryland jurisdictions with 5 core services
Majority individuals with disabilities steering statewide policy
FY 2025–2027 strategic priorities actively advancing across MD
Championing self-determination and disability civil rights
Established under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended, Maryland SILC carries out key duties to safeguard and promote independent living.
Jointly develop, monitor, and evaluate the 3-year State Plan in partnership with Maryland Centers for Independent Living and federal funding partners.
Coordinate statewide initiatives with the Maryland Department of Disabilities (MDOD), State Rehabilitation Council, and local advocacy coalitions.
Host regular public engagement sessions, town halls, and listening forums to identify emergent barriers and advocate for legislative solutions.
Promote policies that expand housing accessibility, accessible transit, employment opportunities, and home-and-community-based support systems.
Public council sessions, committee meetings, and community resource fairs are open to all Marylanders with full accessibility support.
Maryland SILC Executive Committee Meeting Agenda for Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at 12:30 PM (EDT). Led by Executive Director Lorna-Mae Silcott. Agenda items: Needs Assessment Survey Update, Upcoming Virtual Listening Sessions (Oct 19–22, 6–7 PM), SPIL challenges and upcoming modifications, Non-Profit follow-up, HILA session (Oct 28), and Committee chairs needed.
Maryland SILC Legislative Committee regular monthly meeting. Regular meeting schedule resumes starting Monday, November 2, 2026 at 9:30 AM (EST).
Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) Public Engagement Committee regular monthly meeting. Regular meeting schedule resumes on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at 6:00 PM (EST).
Public Announcement: Cancellation of October In-Person Town Halls Final Virtual Listening Session Details The Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (Maryland SILC) regrets to inform our community that our previously scheduled in-person Town Hall meetings for October 2026 have been canceled. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to attendees, partners, and community members planning to join us in person. Gathering input from Maryland's disability community remains ou
Updates on council initiatives, CIL spotlights, disability policy breakthroughs, and career opportunities.
Maryland SILC Executive Committee Meeting Agenda for Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at 12:30 PM (EDT). Discussion items include Needs Assessment Survey Update, October Listening Sessions, SPIL modifications, Non-Profit follow-up, HILA session, and Committee chair appointments.
Please be advised that today’s Public Engagement Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 1, 2026, has been canceled. We apologize for any inconvenience this schedule change may cause and appreciate your understanding.
Please be advised that the upcoming Legislative Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, October 5, 2026, has been canceled. Meetings will resume on their regular schedule starting Monday, November 2, 2026.
Receive timely announcements about upcoming public council meetings, SPIL updates, policy initiatives, and statewide disability advocacy alerts.
