MD HB1278

Establishes the Maryland Positive Youth Development Commission within the State Department of Education to award grants to community-based organizations, youth-serving organizations, local governments, and schools providing out-of-school-time programming for youth from birth through age 25

Creates the Maryland Positive Youth Development Fund as a special, nonlapsing fund primarily funded by proceeds from state litigation settlements or judgments against social media companies found to have harmed youth

Allocates fund expenditures as follows: up to 10% for Attorney General's Office litigation costs against social media companies, up to 10% for commission administration and technical assistance, and remaining funds for grants to eligible organizations

Commission membership includes the State Superintendent, four youth members ages 14-24 appointed by the Governor, parent representatives, and appointees from various state agencies including Juvenile Services, Human Services, Health, and the Attorney General's office

Act takes effect July 1, 2026, but is contingent on the State receiving settlement or judgment funds from social media litigation by June 30, 2030, or the provisions become null and void