MD SB9

Expands the letter of intent requirement for new graduate programs to include private nonprofit institutions of higher education, in addition to public senior institutions, with submissions required every 6 months to the Maryland Higher Education Commission

Repeals Section 11-206.5, which had limited approval of "emerging workforce need programs" to only five specific institutions (Bowie State, Coppin State, Morgan State, University of Maryland College Park, and University of Maryland Eastern Shore)

Requires the Commission to review letters of intent to identify similar programs between institutions and may notify affected institutions to encourage collaboration, but prohibits using letters of intent to establish approval priority or grant any institution "right of first refusal"

Removes the requirement for the Commission to circulate letters of intent among institutions, while maintaining the prohibition on posting them publicly

Enacted as an emergency measure, taking effect immediately upon approval by Governor Wes Moore on April 22, 2025