Bill > S2017

This bill aims to ensure uniformity in education discrimination complaint procedures. The key provisions include: 1. Allowing any person seeking admission or enrolled as a student in a vocational training institution to file a verified complaint with the Commission alleging an unfair educational practice, which the Commission will then investigate and attempt to resolve through informal methods. 2. Authorizing the Commission to investigate potential discrimination against applicants or enrolled students on its own motion, except for preferential selection by religious or denominational institutions based on religious or denominational affiliations. 3. Establishing a 300-day timeline for filing a complaint and outlining the hearing process, including the respondent's right to respond and present evidence, and the Commission's subpoena and enforcement powers. 4. Allowing the hearing commissioner or officer to issue cease and desist orders, as well as other remedies, if an unfair educational practice is found, or to dismiss the complaint if no such practice is found. 5. Providing the right to appeal the hearing commissioner or officer's decision to the Full Commission, whose decision would constitute the final agency decision.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S2017