Bill > SB574

This bill modifies the terms and compensation structure for the Howard County Board of Education by establishing a new Howard County Board of Education Compensation Commission. The bill changes the election and term lengths for board members, creating a more complex staggered system where members elected from councilmanic districts and at-large positions will have either 4-year or 6-year terms based on the percentage of votes received. The new Compensation Commission, consisting of five Howard County residents appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council, will be responsible for studying and recommending appropriate salaries and benefits for board members every four years. Board members will now have two compensation options: a fixed annual salary (currently $18,000 for the chair and $16,000 for other members) or a salary determined by the Commission's recommendations. The Commission will consider factors such as board members' responsibilities, required skills, time commitment, and salaries in comparable jurisdictions when making its recommendations. The Howard County Council can then submit a resolution to the County Delegation recommending salary adjustments based on the Commission's report. The bill also provides a scholarship option for the student board member and establishes clear guidelines for the Commission's composition and operation, with members prohibited from being employed by the school board or having a relative on the board.

Education

Howard County Senators

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0574?ys=2025RS