Bill > HB497

This bill establishes new regulations for youth transportation companies that transport children to residential child care programs, focusing on protecting children during transport. The bill defines residential child care programs broadly, including wilderness programs, boot camps, therapeutic boarding schools, and behavioral modification programs serving children with emotional, behavioral, mental health, substance use, or disability diagnoses. The legislation prohibits transportation companies from using visual impairments like blindfolds, mechanical restraints such as handcuffs and chains, and physical restraints, except in cases of a substantial likelihood of imminent serious physical harm to a child or others. The bill also restricts transportation companies from picking up children between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., with an exception for companies under contract with the Department of Human Services. Additionally, the bill allows both the Attorney General and individual victims to bring civil actions against transportation companies for violations, with the Attorney General able to seek injunctive relief and statutory damages, and individuals able to seek restitution, compensatory damages, and attorney's fees. The legislation is designed to be applied prospectively, meaning it will only cover incidents occurring after its effective date of October 1, 2025, and aims to prevent potential abuse or inappropriate treatment of children during transport to residential care facilities.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0497?ys=2025RS