We are still going through the details of new laws, but here is a recap of some of the biggest bills of the session we followed – and a recap from the Catholic Review.
Bills the MCC Supported (partial list)
▶︎ PASSED: SB 420 and HB 06: The Maryland higher education commission will gather demographic data on parenting status at higher ed institutions, and institutions will be required to adopt plans to support pregnant and parenting students.
▶︎ PASSED: SB 323 and HB 409: Under the Youth Charging Reform Act, a number of juvenile charges will start in juvenile court, not adult court, and kids cannot be held in adult jail with adults. The most serious offenses, such as first-degree murder, assault and rape, will continue to be automatically sent to adult court.
▶︎ PASSED: SB 245: State and local governments and agencies cannot enter nor remain in immigration enforcement agreements (called 287(g)). These agreements can generate fear and prevent immigrants from seeking law enforcement assistance or essential services for healthcare, safety and other needs.
▶︎ PASSED: HB 1017: This prohibits a building from being used or converted for use as an immigrant detention facility unless the use is consistent with the local zoning authority.
▶︎ FUNDED: $26 million for nonpublic schools, including BOOST scholarships, textbook and technology programs, aging building grants and funding to address security measures at schools and houses of worship.
Bills the MCC Opposed (partial list)
▶︎ PASSED (unfortunately): SB 169 and HB 372, the “EMTALA” bill could impact Catholic hospital conscience rights.
▶︎ FAILED: HB 649 would have allowed an individual to have legal action against a public or private school under broadly and vaguely defined discrimination language, and with unlimited punitive damages.
Disabilities Funding
This session also saw a $126 million cut from the budget of the Developmental Disabilities Administration, although $36 million was added back in through the state’s supplemental budget.