MD SB789

Expands eligibility for hunger-free campus designation from public institutions only to include private 4-year and 2-year institutions of higher education, while explicitly prohibiting private institutions from receiving grant funding under the program.

Increases the required annual budget appropriation for the Hunger-Free Campus Grant Program from $150,000 to $250,000 beginning in fiscal year 2027.

Maintains the $150,000 appropriation level for fiscal years 2023 through 2026.

Requires the Maryland Higher Education Commission to incorporate a plan for addressing basic needs insecurity of higher education students into the 2026-2030 State Plan for Higher Education.

Takes effect July 1, 2025, and was approved by Governor Wes Moore on May 6, 2025.