Bill > SB95

This bill establishes new safety standards for public playgrounds managed by state and local governments in Maryland. The legislation defines a "playground" as a public outdoor recreation area for children with one or more play structures. It requires each government unit responsible for playground construction and maintenance to ensure compliance with three specific safety standards: the Public Playground Safety Handbook from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and the ANSI Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing Materials. The bill mandates that these government units conduct playground inspections at least once every two years to evaluate compliance with these safety standards. After each inspection, the responsible government unit must maintain a detailed inspection record that includes a written plan to address any safety hazards discovered during the assessment. The new requirements will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing government entities time to prepare and implement the necessary safety protocols for public playgrounds.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0095?ys=2025RS