Bill > HB479

This bill modifies Maryland's higher education regulations by requiring nonpublic institutions of higher education to submit a letter of intent to the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) regarding new graduate-level programs every 6 months, starting January 1, 2025. The letter of intent must outline all new graduate programs the institution plans to propose within the next 6 months to 2 years. The bill also removes previous restrictions that limited which institutions could propose emerging workforce need programs, effectively opening up program development opportunities to more institutions. Additionally, the bill requires MHEC to update the State Plan for Higher Education by January 1, 2025, with updated state and regional workforce needs information, and mandates that the Commission provide postsecondary education stakeholders, including students, public members, and industry partners, an opportunity to provide input during the plan update process. The bill is classified as an emergency measure, signaling its immediate importance to public health or safety, and will take effect upon enactment.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0479?ys=2025RS