MD HB854

Establishes the Nonpublic Special Education School Renovation Program within the Interagency Commission on School Construction to provide grants for classroom renovations, residential cottage upgrades, health and safety improvements, infrastructure modernization, and new construction necessary to meet Department standards.

Limits eligibility to nonpublic special education schools that operate with a residential treatment center licensed by the Maryland Department of Health, Department of Human Services, or Department of Juvenile Services, and that provide Department-approved curricula for elementary, middle, or high school students placed in nonpublic programs.

Directs the Interagency Commission to prioritize applications for projects addressing student health or safety concerns, projects needed to comply with Department standards, and schools with a high percentage of Maryland-resident students.

Authorizes the Governor to include an appropriation for the program in the annual budget bill each fiscal year, with no specific funding amount mandated.

Takes effect July 1, 2026, and requires the Interagency Commission to adopt regulations necessary to implement the program.