Education

This bill authorizes the University System of Maryland to issue $50 million in bonds ($26 million for specific projects and $24 million for systemwide facility renewals) to fund academic facility improvements. It directly affects three University System of Maryland campuses (Towson University, University of Maryland College Park, and the System Office) by financing projects like electrical upgrades, a new health complex, and deferred maintenance repairs. The bonds are explicitly non-state debt, meaning they do not count as Maryland's obligation or require state funding. The bill approves specific construction and renewal projects to modernize academic infrastructure without creating new state liabilities. It takes effect June 1, 2026.

HB 1530 repeals a requirement that undocumented students (or their parents/guardians) must file Maryland income tax returns annually for three years to qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges. The bill directly affects undocumented students who attended Maryland high schools and meet other existing criteria (graduation from a Maryland school, applying within six years). Instead of tax filings, students must now submit an affidavit committing to apply for permanent residency within 30 days of eligibility, plus proof of Selective Service compliance if required. The bill maintains other eligibility conditions like Maryland high school attendance but removes the tax documentation burden, aiming to simplify access to in-state tuition rates.

This bill requires Maryland county school boards to submit detailed justifications and cost comparisons before entering into service contracts, including proof that they explored alternatives and a plan to assist employees who might lose their jobs. It mandates that contracts demonstrate at least 20% savings compared to using school employees, while accounting for all direct and indirect costs, and subjects contracts to public audits for compliance. Additionally, the bill directs the State Department of Education to create a new professional development system for paraeducators and support staff by July 2027, requiring paid training during school hours that includes collaboration with teachers, crisis prevention, and job skills training. County boards must then implement this system for all support professionals in their districts, with the department providing guidance on the program's specifics.