Bill > HB1530

This bill requires the Maryland State Department of Education to create and maintain a publicly accessible online data dashboard for prekindergarten providers beginning July 1, 2026. The dashboard will provide comprehensive, searchable information about eligible prekindergarten providers, including details such as location (by zip code), age groups served, type of care (home or center-based), operating hours, pricing, quality ratings, financial aid availability, program duration, preferred language, special needs services, and current availability. To develop this dashboard, the Department must partner with a nonprofit organization experienced in maintaining similar child care provider data platforms and attempt to integrate existing dashboards. The bill also mandates that the Department establish a process allowing prekindergarten providers to opt out of being included in the dashboard. An "eligible prekindergarten provider" is defined as either a public provider (like a county board's public school program) or a private provider (such as a licensed community-based early learning program that meets specific criteria). The goal is to help parents and families more easily find and compare prekindergarten options across the state.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1530?ys=2025RS