Education - Remote Learning Accommodations - Established (College Disability Education Act)

HB 531, the College Disability Education Act, requires all Maryland public colleges and universities to provide remote learning accommodations for students with chronic illnesses or autoimmune conditions starting in the 2026-2027 academic year. It mandates specific accommodations like livestreamed classes, recorded lectures, and virtual office hours, while allowing institutions discretion over technology platforms. Public institutions may apply for waivers due to financial hardship, rural location, or being newly established, and the Maryland Higher Education Commission will administer a grant program to fund technology and staff training for compliance. Institutions must survey eligible students annually on accommodation effectiveness and meet a 2029 deadline for most degree programs to offer remote options.