MD SB218

Authorizes the State Superintendent of Schools to declare a prolonged state of emergency for public schools when an event prevents regular, in-person attendance for at least 14 consecutive school days, upon written request from a county superintendent or when immediate action is necessary

Qualifying emergencies include natural disasters, civil disasters, public health emergencies, or specific security threats identified by federal, state, or local law enforcement

Requires the State Superintendent to consult with the Governor and relevant agencies (Maryland Department of Emergency Management, Department of State Police, or Maryland Department of Health), issue a written declaration specifying the nature of the emergency and affected school systems, and promptly disseminate the declaration

Shifts authority to declare prolonged states of emergency affecting schools from the Governor (under Title 14 of the Public Safety Article) to the State Superintendent under the Education Article

Takes effect July 1, 2026