Education - Youth Enhancement Program - Establishment

SB 97 establishes Maryland's Youth Enhancement Program within the State Department of Education to provide grants to Baltimore City-based nonprofit organizations. The program directly serves early adolescents and young adults in Baltimore City or Baltimore County who qualify for free/reduced school meals, are from historically disadvantaged groups, and face achievement barriers. Grants fund nonprofits to deliver year-round services including health/wellness, mental health support, character development, and college/career readiness during out-of-school time, with some staff previously receiving the same services. The program requires annual $1 million funding starting in 2027, mandates service reports from nonprofits, and requires the Department to submit annual progress reports to the General Assembly.