MD HB288

Transfers authority to declare a "prolonged state of emergency" for public schools from the Governor to the State Superintendent of Schools

Defines prolonged state of emergency as an event preventing regular, in-person attendance at a public school for at least 14 consecutive school days

County boards may transition to virtual education under approved plans during a prolonged state of emergency, with plans requiring components for staffing, instruction, assessment, social-emotional learning, communications, technology, nutrition/health services, and return to in-person instruction

Preserves the Secretary of Health's responsibilities under Title 18 of the Health-General Article during public health emergencies

Effective date: July 1, 2026