MD HB1277

Establishes the Maryland Institute for Literacy and Equity as a partnership between University of Maryland, College Park and Morgan State University to serve as a state-funded research and technical assistance center for literacy promotion.

Requires Governor to include budget appropriations of $1.5 million each to UMD College Park and Morgan State in FY 2028 to establish the Institute, followed by $4 million in FY 2029, $5 million in FY 2030, and $6 million annually beginning FY 2031.

Directs the Institute to provide technical assistance to the Department of Education and county boards, conduct evidence-based literacy research, train literacy professionals, and engage with community organizations including libraries and after-school programs.

Requires annual reports by October 1 (beginning 2027) to the University System of Maryland and Department of Education detailing activities, outcomes, and financial expenditures.

Takes effect July 1, 2026; cites Maryland's ranking of 20th out of 50 states in fourth grade reading scores (2024 NAEP data) and disparities based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status as justification.