Bill > SB97

This bill establishes the Youth Enhancement Program in the Maryland Department of Education, designed to provide grants to nonprofit organizations in Baltimore City that support early adolescent children and young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds. The targeted individuals are students residing in or attending public schools in Baltimore City or Baltimore County, who qualify for free or reduced-price meals and belong to historically disadvantaged groups. These nonprofit organizations will provide services during out-of-school and out-of-work time, focusing on lifelong health and wellness, mental health, character development, and college and career readiness. The services will be partly delivered by individuals who previously received services from the organization, creating a mentorship model. The Department of Education will administer the program, establish application procedures, and receive annual reports from grant recipients detailing the services provided and student progress. Starting in fiscal year 2027, the Governor will include a $1,000,000 appropriation for the program in the annual budget bill, and the Department will submit a comprehensive report to the General Assembly each December summarizing the nonprofit organizations' reports. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0097?ys=2025RS