Bill > HB495

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for antidiscrimination policies in educational institutions, including prekindergarten programs, K-12 schools, and postsecondary institutions. The bill defines an "antidiscrimination policy" as a policy addressing bullying, harassment, sexual violence, and other forms of discrimination based on characteristics like race, gender, sexual orientation, and disability. Schools with such policies must ensure they include specific detailed information, such as reporting options for victims, investigation processes, contact information, potential accommodations, and resources like hotline numbers and medical facility locations. The policy must be written in plain, age-appropriate language, available in frequently spoken languages, and accessible to individuals with limited English proficiency or disabilities. Schools are required to distribute the policy through multiple channels, including student handbooks, email, campus postings, and websites. Additionally, the bill mandates that schools provide mandatory training about the antidiscrimination policy to both students and employees, conducting these sessions at the beginning of each school year or within four weeks of employment. If a school lacks resources to provide the training internally, they must coordinate with a community organization with relevant expertise to deliver the training at no cost. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0495?ys=2025RS