MD HB649

Child placement agencies must provide foster parents with a background report on a child before the foster parent can consent to the placement

Required background report must disclose any interactions the child has had with law enforcement agencies, including arrests

Report must indicate whether the child has been charged with or found guilty of a crime, or been a member of or associated with a criminal gang

Report must also disclose any school suspensions or expulsions

Effective date: October 1, 2025