MD HB649

Authorizes the Commission on Civil Rights to enforce prohibitions against discrimination and retaliation in educational institutions based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, or marital status

Covers public and nonpublic prekindergarten programs, elementary schools, secondary schools, postsecondary institutions, and other educational programs leading to certificates, diplomas, or degrees

Establishes a private right of action allowing individuals to bring civil lawsuits for discriminatory educational practices, with courts authorized to award injunctive relief, compensatory damages, and punitive damages (for non-governmental defendants acting with actual malice)

Requires the Maryland Higher Education Commission and Board of Regents of the University System of Maryland to refer discrimination complaints to the Commission on Civil Rights for investigation

Creates concurrent jurisdiction between the Commission on Civil Rights and the State Superintendent for enforcement, with complaints required to be filed within 6 months of the alleged discriminatory act and mediation attempted within 60 days; effective date is October 1, 2026