Bill > HB1274

This bill allows local school systems to award diplomas to deceased students under specific circumstances, aiming to honor their connection to the school community. A "standard high school diploma" can be awarded posthumously if the student was a resident, in 12th grade, close to graduation with sufficient credits, and in good academic standing at the time of their death. A "posthumous honorary diploma" can be given to a deceased student who was a resident, in 11th or 12th grade, and nearing graduation. An "in memoriam diploma," which is ceremonial and recognizes a student's membership in the school, can be awarded to any deceased student who was a resident or enrolled in kindergarten through 10th grade. The number of credits required for a standard posthumous diploma must be significantly higher than for a posthumous honorary diploma, and these diplomas are ceremonial unless it's a standard posthumous diploma, meaning they generally do not confer academic standing or affect graduation rate calculations. The bill also specifies that these diplomas can only be awarded upon written request from the student's parent, legal guardian, or next of kin, and the law will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1274?ys=2026RS