Bill > HB1138

This bill modifies regulations for private career schools (privately owned postsecondary education institutions focused on job training) by allowing them to advertise and collect contact information from potential students before receiving a formal certificate of approval from the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Under the new provisions, schools must first obtain approval from the Secretary of Higher Education to begin advertising, and when they do advertise, they must: (1) only share information about the school's opening, anticipated opening date, instructional programs, and application process; (2) clearly disclose that their certificate of approval is still pending; and (3) are explicitly prohibited from collecting any fees or entering into enrollment agreements with potential students. The bill aims to provide more flexibility for new private career schools in marketing their programs while still maintaining protective measures to ensure educational quality and transparency. The new regulations will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving institutions and the Maryland Higher Education Commission time to prepare for the changes.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1138?ys=2025RS