Bill > HB117

This bill, known as the Bowen Levy Airway Clearing Device Act, requires each county board of education in Maryland to establish a policy for public schools to ensure the availability and proper use of airway clearing devices, which are portable medical devices that use manually created suction to remove airway blockages during choking emergencies. The policy must mandate that each school obtain at least one such device and authorize school nurses or other designated personnel to use it. Furthermore, the policy will specify where these devices should be stored, particularly in areas where students and staff primarily eat, and will require training for school personnel on recognizing choking symptoms and using the devices. The bill also includes provisions for liability protection for school staff who act in good faith to respond to choking emergencies, shielding them from personal liability except in cases of willful or grossly negligent acts. Finally, the Department of Education will develop a standard form for schools to report any incidents where an airway clearing device is used, and schools will be required to submit these reports.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0117?ys=2026RS