Bill > HB672

This bill makes two key changes to Maryland law regarding school health services. First, it expands the membership of the Maryland Council on Advancement of School-Based Health Centers by adding a school nurse nominated by the Maryland Association of School Health Nurses, bringing the total voting membership to 16. Second, the bill establishes a new annual assessment process where the Maryland Department of Health and State Department of Education will jointly conduct a comprehensive review of school health and wellness personnel. This assessment will track the ratio of health professionals (including school nurses, counselors, therapists, and social workers) to students across different jurisdictions, collect data on job vacancy rates, and gather feedback on strategies to improve recruitment and retention of these critical staff. Beginning December 1, 2027, the agencies are required to submit a report to the General Assembly and publish the findings on their respective websites. The goal appears to be gaining a clearer understanding of the current state of school health workforce needs and identifying potential solutions to staffing challenges. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0672?ys=2025RS