MD HB1059

State Board of Education must evaluate Asian American history training programs from seven specified organizations (including the Smithsonian Institution, Asian American Education Project, and Sikh Coalition) for inclusion in the continuing professional development program where educators earn license renewal points.

Establishes the Asian American History Grant Program, administered by the Department of Education, to expand professional development access and fund school library materials on Asian American and Pacific Islander history.

Elementary, middle, and high school teachers may apply for grants up to $2,000 to cover costs of obtaining professional development through approved Asian American history programs.

School libraries may apply for grants up to $1,000 per year to purchase age-appropriate materials on Asian American and Pacific Islander history.

Governor must include $500,000 annually in the budget for the grant program beginning in fiscal year 2028; effective date is July 1, 2026.