(a) There is a scholarship program known as the Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program in the State.

(b) The purpose of the Program is to assist college and graduate students to explore public service career opportunities through internships.

(c) The Shriver Center shall administer the Program.

(d) An institution of higher education in the State may nominate eligible students to participate in the Program on or before:

(1) January 1 of each year for summer and fall internships; and

(2) October 1 of each year for spring internships.

(e) Priority for participation in the Program shall be given to an eligible student who:

(1) Is a resident of the State;

(2) Has demonstrated an interest in a career in public service; and

(3) Assists in providing:

(i) Legal services:

1. To low-income residents in the State who cannot afford legal services; or

2. In a public service position;

(ii) Social work services to low-income residents in the State;

(iii) Nursing services in nursing shortage areas in the State as defined in § 18-802 of this title; or

(iv) Other services in the public or nonprofit sectors in which there is a shortage of qualified practitioners to low-income or underserved residents or areas of the State.

(f) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, for eligible students who have agreed to serve in a public service internship, the Shriver Center shall award scholarships on or before:

(i) January 15 of each year for spring internships;

(ii) May 1 of each year for summer internships; and

(iii) August 1 of each year for fall internships.

(2) Funds for the scholarships awarded under this subtitle shall be as provided in the State budget.

(g) Subject to the availability of funds, the scholarship award under the Program shall be at least $2,000 and no more than $5,000.

(h) The Shriver Center shall serve as a clearinghouse for public and nonprofit entities that wish to hire public service interns participating in the Program.