Bill > HB588

This bill modifies existing Maryland law regarding the reporting of juvenile arrests and offenses to educational institutions. The bill requires law enforcement agencies and the Department of Juvenile Services to notify local school superintendents and school principals when a student is arrested for a "reportable offense" - which includes various serious crimes committed off school premises, such as violent crimes, drug offenses, weapons violations, and sexual offenses. The notification must occur within 24 hours of arrest and include information about the charges. Additionally, the Department of Juvenile Services must provide details about any educational programming and services provided to the student. The bill mandates that this information remains confidential and cannot be part of the student's permanent educational record, but can be shared between schools if the student transfers. Schools are required to use this information to provide appropriate educational support and maintain a safe environment. The bill also requires schools to consider separating students involved in sexual offenses from their alleged victims and mandates an annual reporting process that tracks data about reportable offenses, including demographic information and the impact on the student's educational program. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0588?ys=2025RS