Bill > HB811

This bill introduces new requirements for county boards of education and county governments to improve safe routes to school for students. Each year, county boards must prepare and publish a report identifying areas where students are not eligible for school transportation due to distance, and detailing safe alternative routes students can use to travel to school. A "safe alternative route" is defined to include roads with sidewalks and crosswalks, foot paths, and bike paths. County governing bodies are then required to review this report and construct any necessary sidewalks and crosswalks to create these safe routes. If the required road modifications involve roads not under the county's jurisdiction, the county must develop a plan with the controlling entity and make reasonable efforts to implement improvements. The bill aims to enhance student safety by providing infrastructure that allows students to walk or bike to school more securely, particularly in areas where they do not qualify for school transportation. These new requirements will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving counties time to prepare and implement the necessary reporting and infrastructure improvements.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0811?ys=2025RS