Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB791

Introduced
1/31/24  
Refer
1/31/24  

Caption

Operating Budget - Funding - Scholarships for Nonpublic School Students

Impact

The implementation of HB 791 would directly influence state financial allocations towards education, particularly for families who might otherwise struggle to afford tuition for nonpublic education. By providing a consistent and increasing funding stream for scholarships, the bill aims to offer greater educational choices for low-income families, potentially enhancing their opportunities for academic success. The establishment of a dedicated budget for such scholarships also reflects a strategic state investment in educational diversity and accessibility.

Summary

House Bill 791 is focused on the State of Maryland's operating budget with a specific aim to provide funding for scholarships that allow eligible students to attend nonpublic schools. This legislation mandates that the Governor allocate a defined amount for the BOOST (Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today) program in the annual budget. It outlines a structured increase in appropriations over several fiscal years, starting from $10 million in FY 2026 and rising to $16 million in FY 2029 and subsequent years. This initiative is designed to support students who qualify for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's free or reduced price lunch program.

Contention

However, the proposal may spur debate regarding educational equity and the role of public versus private schooling. Opponents of scholarship programs like the BOOST initiative often raise concerns about the possible implications for public school funding. They argue that diverting state funds to support private education can weaken public schools by reducing their financial resources, which could undermine broad educational access and equity. Thus, discussions surrounding HB 791 are likely to involve differing perspectives on the balance between enhancing educational choices through private schooling and the essential support for public schools.

Companion Bills

MD SB552

Crossfiled Operating Budget - Funding - Scholarships for Nonpublic School Students

MD HB415

Carry Over Operating Budget - Funding - Scholarships for Nonpublic School Students

Previously Filed As

MD SB419

Nonpublic Schools - School Health Services Program - Eligibility for Participation

MD HB486

Task Force to Study Nonpublic Student Bus Transportation

MD SB324

Task Force to Study Nonpublic Student Bus Transportation

MD HB603

Nonpublic Schools - School Health Services Program - Eligibility for Participation

MD HB200

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

MD SB181

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

MD HB185

Nonpublic Schools and Child Care Providers - Corporal Punishment - Prohibition

MD HB266

Public and Nonpublic Schools - Bronchodilator Availability and Use - Policies

MD SB841

Local School Systems - Student Field Trips - Funding

MD HB982

State Employees – Programs and Scholarships for Human Services Careers and Probation Agents and State Contributions to Supplemental Retirement Plans

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.