MD SB359

Individuals seeking positions with direct contact with children at licensed or registered child care facilities must submit to a criminal history records check, including employees and volunteers

State Department of Education must establish a centralized unit by June 30, 2027 to process and manage criminal history records checks for child care applicants

Centralized unit must notify applicants of application status within 10 days and eligibility determination within 45 days of submission

Probationary employment qualifications for first-time child care teachers expanded to include centers serving children at least 2 years old (lowered from 3 years old)

Removes the cap of three Deputy State Superintendents of Schools, allowing the State Superintendent to appoint any number