County Boards of Education - Therapy Dogs - Policy for Handling and Use in Schools

HB 128 requires Maryland county school boards to permit therapy dogs in public schools, subject to specific policies they must create. The bill mandates that all therapy dogs must be certified, accompanied by a handler, and used only in designated areas with clear guidelines for managing allergies or discomfort among students and staff. Each county board must adopt a policy covering certification standards, handler responsibilities, allowed locations, and allergy protocols. The law takes effect on July 1, 2026, and directly affects county school systems, therapy dog handlers, and students with allergies.