MD HB834

Expands Maryland's legal definition of "neglect" under Family Law Section 5-701 to include failure or refusal to provide a child with the education required by law

Applies to any parent or other person with permanent or temporary care, custody, or supervisory responsibility for a child under age 18

Creates a separate category of neglect for educational failure that does not require proof of harm or risk of harm to the child's health, welfare, or mental state

Introduced by Delegate Schindler on February 4, 2026 and assigned to the Judiciary Committee

Takes effect October 1, 2026