Family and Community
Legislative Update: Strong Advocacy, Advancing Priorities, Protecting Schools
Apr 01, 2026
Legislative Update: Strong Advocacy, Advancing Priorities, Protecting Schools
Following the leadership of our state legislators in advancing the 2025 Maryland Values Act, PGCPS has taken action to ensure clarity, consistency, and safety during immigration enforcement activity.
The Prince George’s County Board of Education has adopted formal protocols that guide school-based responses during immigration enforcement activity.
Key provisions include:
* Authorizing shelter-in-place when an immigration agent is within 1,000 feet of schools
* Prohibiting school security from acting as immigration agents
* Reinforcing schools as safe, secure learning environments for all students
These measures provide clear, legally grounded guidance for staff while reaffirming the district’s commitment to equity and student protections. Read More
View March 26 press event: New BOE Policy - Interacting with Immigration Enforcement Agents
Where We Stand: Snapshot of Key Legislation
Support with Amendment
SB 48 – Public School Construction – Alterations
Supports enhanced oversight; however, current thresholds may delay projects and increase costs.
PGCPS recommends increasing the state approval threshold for HVAC projects to $3–5 million to avoid administrative bottlenecks.
Support
SB 292 – Student Transportation – Sunset Repeal and Study
This legislation has been instrumental in supporting ongoing transportation improvements in PGCPS, particularly by expanding flexibility in hiring and operations. By addressing CDL barriers, it has helped reduce the bus driver shortage and strengthen service reliability, including transportation to specialized student placements.
Crossover Complete. Advocacy Delivering Results.
View our 2026 Legislative Platform
The Maryland General Assembly has reached crossover, meaning only bills that passed their original chamber are likely to advance. Through coordinated advocacy with our partners, PGCPS has helped halt most proposed unfunded mandates impacting the district, protecting local resources and preserving flexibility to meet student needs.
Budget Agreements
The State’s Capital and Operating Budget passed through the Assembly this year earlier than usual. The conference committee between the House and Senate met during the last week of March. View a summary of the final budget.
On Our Radar
HB 423 – Drug Detection Products in High Schools (Prince George’s County) — Support
Expands access to drug detection tools to enhance student safety.
HB 525 – Maryland Phone-Free Schools Act
Requires districts to adopt policies prohibiting student use of personal electronic devices during the school day by 2027–2028. The bill emphasizes structured device storage to reduce distractions and improve focus.
