Maryland 2025 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB379

Introduced
1/16/25  

Caption

Prince George's County - Public Middle and High Schools - Drug Detection Products PG 507-25

Impact

This legislation represents a proactive approach to drug prevention and intervention in educational settings. By making drug detection tools readily available in schools, the bill seeks to empower students to take charge of their wellbeing while also enhancing the educational institution's responsibility to foster a safe environment. The requirement also emphasizes the need for enhanced health education around substance abuse, acknowledging the growing prevalence of drug-related incidents among youth.

Summary

House Bill 379 requires the Prince George’s County Board of Education to provide drug detection products to public middle and high school students at no cost, beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. The specified products include drink spiking detection products and drug detection strips that test for fentanyl. These items aim to address rising concerns around drug use and safety in schools, particularly regarding substances that can compromise student safety within school environments.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 379 may include concerns over the effectiveness of the proposed drug detection products, alongside potential discussions about the appropriateness of implementing such measures in school settings. Critics might raise questions regarding privacy implications and the resources necessary to educate students about proper usage and mitigate misuse of the detection products. Additionally, ensuring there is sufficient training for staff to handle the results and follow up appropriately could be a point of debate within the community.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD HB1079

Prince George's County - Board of Education and School System Revisions PG 502-23

MD HB395

Prince George's County - Early Childhood Education Program and High School Child Care Centers - Established PG 504-24

MD SB191

Prince George's County - Public School Employees Property Tax Credit and Office of Integrity and Compliance PG 503-24

MD HB437

Prince George's County Public Schools - Alterations to Title of Chief Executive Officer and Establishment of Office of Integrity and Compliance PG 501-23

MD HB399

Prince George's County - High School Metal Detector Program - Established PG 302-24

MD HB432

Prince George's County - Chief Executive Officer of the Public School System - Alterations to Title and Search Committee Requirements PG 503-23

MD HB396

Prince George's County - Sales and Use Tax on Energy and Fuel - Use of Revenue PG 407-24

MD HB1246

Prince George's County - Income Tax Credit for Parent and Guardian Volunteers in Elementary and Secondary Schools PG 411-24

MD HB821

Prince George's County - Student Support - Specialist Networks and Success Action Plans (Student Supports and Success Act) PG 502-24

MD HB398

Prince George's County - Taxes on Telecommunications Services - Use of Revenue PG 406-24

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.