Maryland House Bill HB1013

Maryland 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/26
• Refer: 2/6/26

Caption

Prince George’s County Special Education Service Delivery, Transparency, and Accountability Act

Impact

The legislation is pivotal as it introduces a framework for improved oversight and accountability in the delivery of special education services. With quarterly updates required from the County Superintendent regarding special education metrics—including the number of aides deployed and compliance with individual education programs (IEPs)—this act seeks to address existing gaps in service delivery. Additionally, a third-party audit will assess the performance and compliance of special education provisions over a five-year period. This will open pathways for targeted improvements and accountability to ensure adherence to federal standards, particularly the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Summary

House Bill 1013, known as the Prince George’s County Special Education Service Delivery, Transparency, and Accountability Act, aims to enhance the management and delivery of special education services in Prince George's County. The bill mandates that the County Board of Education and the County Superintendent allocate funds in their annual budgets to hire one-to-one student aides, ensuring these aides receive full-time salaries and benefits similar to other full-time county employees. This proposed act is set to take effect at the start of the 2027-2028 school year, allowing sufficient time for planning and implementation.

Contention

Notably, the bill's implementation has sparked discussion among stakeholders about its necessity and the broader implications for the county's educational budget and capabilities. While supporters emphasize the importance of specialized support for students with disabilities, critics remain concerned about potential budget constraints and the capacity of existing resources to meet the added demands imposed by the new legislative requirements. The focus on performance metrics and compliance may also stir debate about the balance between oversight and the autonomy of local educational authorities.