Bill > HB1383

This bill requires the State Board of Education to adopt regulations concerning the minimum functional and technical requirements for the state's online special education system, specifically focusing on the Maryland Online Individualized Education Program and the Maryland Online Individualized Family Service Plan. The bill adds a new provision to existing education law that mandates the board establish standards to ensure the online system performs optimally. Originally, the bill also included a requirement for the State Department of Education to conduct a detailed study of the online system, including reviewing its security, user-friendliness, ability to track events and deadlines, document storage capabilities, adaptability, and compliance with federal and state laws. However, those study provisions have been deleted from the final version of the bill. The new regulations are intended to improve the technical infrastructure and performance of the state's special education online platforms, ultimately aiming to better support students with disabilities, their families, teachers, and administrators. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving the State Board of Education time to develop and implement the new technical requirements.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1383?ys=2025RS