Maryland House Bill HB415

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/22
• Refer: 1/19/22

Caption

Operating Budget - Funding - Scholarships for Nonpublic School Students

Impact

The enactment of HB 415 represents a significant shift in educational funding policy, particularly benefiting students from low-income families who seek choices beyond public schooling. The bill emphasizes an increase in state investment in educational options, which advocates argue will empower families by supporting diverse educational environments. This change may lead to a more competitive educational landscape in Maryland, potentially influencing public school systems to enhance their offerings to retain students.

Summary

House Bill 415 is an act that mandates the Maryland Governor to allocate specific amounts in the state's annual budget for scholarships designated for students attending eligible nonpublic schools. This initiative, termed the BOOST (Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today) program, aims to provide financial assistance to students eligible for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's free or reduced-price lunch programs. The proposed funding levels are set to gradually increase from $10 million in fiscal year 2024 to $16 million by fiscal year 2027 and remain at that level in subsequent years.

Contention

While proponents of HB 415 champion the bill as a means to enhance educational opportunities, there are notable concerns and points of contention surrounding its implementation. Critics fear that increased funding for nonpublic school scholarships could divert essential resources away from public education, thereby exacerbating inequities in the public school system. Furthermore, the reliance on private institutions might raise questions about accountability and educational standards, as nonpublic schools are not subject to the same regulations as public institutions.