MABE presents 2026 session takeaways; board urged to prepare for new regulations

Representatives from the Maryland Association for Boards of Education told the Calvert County Board of Education that several laws passed in the 2026 General Assembly will require local policy updates. Joe Getz, MABE executive director, introduced deputy director Sam Mathias, who summarized the bills and emphasized that regulatory guidance and implementation details remain forthcoming.

Mathias highlighted four items he said would affect local practice: HB525, the statewide phone restriction framework (which allows MSDE to adopt regulations defining storage, access and exceptions); SB810, which expands definitions of "sensitive locations" and restricts school staff from sharing certain records with federal enforcement and requires AG guidance for school policies; HB575, which requires districts to excuse certain civic-engagement absences such as testifying or participating in the legislature's page program; and SB685, which directs MSDE to build a model response policy for allegations of abuse or misconduct in schools. Mathias said MABE will comment on proposed regulations and provide member guidance. "They are intending to adopt regulations this winter," he said about the State Board/agency process.