Transportation (Airports)

This bill allows the Maryland Aviation Administration to join the federal Transportation Security Administration's Screening Partnership Program, enabling airports to contract private companies for passenger screening instead of relying solely on federal agents. The legislation authorizes this partnership only with the approval of the Governor and the Secretary of Transportation, ensuring oversight before any agreements are made. By adding a new section to state law, the bill formally establishes the legal framework for this security arrangement while repealing and reenacting existing definitions without changes. As an emergency measure passed with a supermajority, it takes effect immediately upon enactment to address public safety needs.

SB 198 requires Prince George’s Community College to establish an Aerospace Technology Studies Program by December 2026, in collaboration with Maryland’s Higher Education Commission, Department of Commerce, and local economic development groups. The program must include training in aerospace systems, avionics, advanced manufacturing, and AI applications, with industry internships and a clear high school-to-college career pathway. It mandates formal partnerships with local aerospace employers and requires annual reports on progress and student outcomes to state and county officials. The bill directly affects students seeking aerospace careers and local employers needing skilled workers, focusing on workforce development without specifying funding or cost.

SB 505, the Aviation Health and Safety Act, requires the Maryland Aviation Administration to create medical and legal forms for passengers traveling involuntarily in restraints (detained individuals). Flight crews must distribute and collect these forms, which document medical history, allergies, legal contact info, and guardian details for minors. Aeronautical service providers (like fueling companies) must verify the forms are on board before servicing aircraft and compile monthly reports on compliance. The bill also prohibits refueling an aircraft with a restrained passenger onboard and mandates that restrained individuals removed for refueling receive specific services. This directly affects detained travelers, flight crews, and aviation service providers operating in Maryland.

HB 639, the Aviation Health and Safety Act, requires the Maryland Aviation Administration to create a form for passengers traveling involuntarily or in restraint (detained individuals). The form collects medical history (allergies, conditions, medications), legal details (attorney contact, case status), and minor/guardianship information. Flight crews must distribute and collect the forms, while fixed-base operators (FBOs) must verify forms are on board before providing services like fueling. The bill also prohibits refueling an aircraft while a restrained person is aboard and mandates specific services for restrained individuals when they disembark for refueling. These requirements apply to all aircraft carrying detained individuals within Maryland's jurisdiction.