Baltimore First Responders Child Care Support and Accessibility Program - Establishment

HB 1245 establishes the Baltimore First Responders Child Care Support and Accessibility Program within Maryland’s State Department of Education. It provides monthly child care allowances to first responders (including Baltimore City police, fire, and emergency medical personnel) in Baltimore City to support their dependent children’s early development and address recruitment/retention challenges. The program requires $600,000 in annual state funding starting fiscal year 2028, administered with Baltimore City public safety departments and nonprofit partners. Annual reports must track participation by agency, children served, and impacts on recruitment, retention, and public safety.