Bill > SB851

This bill requires county boards of education to annually report on main entrance accessibility for individuals with disabilities in public school buildings. Specifically, by September 1, 2025, and each subsequent September, each county board must publish on its website and report to the General Assembly the number of main entrances that do not meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance standards. The bill also mandates that local school systems update and send their emergency plans to the State Department of Education by September 1, 2025, and each year thereafter. The Department of Education must then analyze these plans and report to the General Assembly by December 1 of the same year, assessing whether local school systems comply with emergency planning guidelines for students with disabilities. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans requiring specific emergency evacuation accommodations must have those needs explicitly addressed in their respective plans. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving schools time to prepare and implement the new requirements.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0851?ys=2025RS