MD SB299

County boards of education must allow the use of certified or registered therapy dogs in public schools to provide affection and comfort to children needing emotional support

All therapy dogs must be accompanied by a handler, defined as an individual who provides care and training for the dog

County boards must adopt policies addressing: certification/registration requirements, handler guidelines, rules for when and where dogs are allowed, and notification requirements for parents, students, and staff

Policies must include guidelines for managing students and staff with dog allergies or who are uncomfortable around dogs

Effective date: July 1, 2026