Bill > SB813

This bill makes several significant changes to the governance of Howard Community College's Board of Trustees. The bill increases the board's size from seven to nine members, with at least eight members required to be Howard County residents, and establishes that a quorum is either four members or a majority of actively serving members. The legislation mandates that each board meeting must include a public comment period and requires the board to record all meetings via video or audio and make these recordings available on their website within two business days. Board members will now be required to undergo training specific to board governance every two years. Additionally, the board must conduct an annual anonymous employee satisfaction survey and submit an unedited report, with personnel-related feedback redacted before public release. The bill also requires the board to submit reports to the General Assembly every six months until a faculty union contract is finalized, starting January 1, 2026. The two new board members will have initial terms expiring in 2032 and 2033, respectively, with the changes taking effect on June 1, 2025. These modifications aim to increase transparency, public engagement, and accountability in the college's governance.

Budget and Finance, Education

Howard County Senators

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0813?ys=2025RS