(a) In this section, “Program” means the National External Diploma Program adopted under regulations by the Secretary in consultation with the State Board of Education.
(b) (1) The Department and the State Board of Education recognize demonstrated competencies in adults, whether or not those competencies were acquired in a formal school setting.
(2) In response to its recognition of competencies, the Department shall provide alternative requirements and methods of obtaining a Maryland high school diploma.
(3) The Department and the State Board of Education shall award diplomas to the individuals meeting the requirements of this subtitle.
(c) (1) For each fiscal year the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill submitted to the General Assembly, including any proposed supplemental budget, a General Fund appropriation for the Program in an amount not less than the amount of the Governor’s General Fund appropriation for the Program in fiscal year 2006.
(2) In each annual budget, the Governor shall include federal funds, to the extent available, for the Program in an amount not less than the amount of the Governor’s federal fund appropriation for the Program in fiscal year 2006.