Bill > SB845

This bill requires the Maryland Department of Education to register local education agencies as associate members of a national membership organization that provides access to the Educator Identification Clearinghouse, and pay the associated membership fees and dues. The bill defines a "national membership organization" as a national organization that serves as a centralized collection point for professional discipline actions across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense educational schools, and Guam, which provides members with notifications about disciplinary actions taken against educators' credentials. Local education agencies will be required to use the Educator Identification Clearinghouse through this national membership organization to screen all individuals who apply for educator positions on or after July 1, 2025. The bill aims to enhance transparency and screening processes in educator hiring by creating a comprehensive, multi-jurisdictional system for tracking and sharing information about educators' professional backgrounds and potential disciplinary issues. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving local school systems time to prepare for and implement these new screening requirements.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0845?ys=2025RS