State Department of Education - Independent Regulatory Framework for After School and Out of School Time Child Care Programs - Study

HB 1373 requires Maryland's State Department of Education to study and recommend an independent regulatory framework specifically for after-school and out-of-school time child care programs serving children aged 5 and older. The study must examine regulatory barriers faced by these programs (which currently use the same rules as early childhood centers), evaluate unique program needs like facility use, homework support, and staffing requirements, and analyze approaches from other states. The Department must consult stakeholders and submit detailed recommendations - including on staffing, facilities, safety, and licensing - by December 1, 2026. This bill does not create new regulations but mandates a study to determine if separate rules would better serve these programs.