Maryland Higher Education Commission - Religious Educational Institutions - Certificate of Approval

SB 208 exempts certain religious educational institutions from needing a certificate of approval from Maryland’s Higher Education Commission to operate in the state. It applies to schools that: (1) exist for religious educational purposes, (2) offer only religious programs, (3) provide faith-specific instruction, and (4) label credentials with their religious nature. The exemption does not apply to schools accredited by U.S. Department of Education-recognized bodies, and institutions operating continuously since before January 1, 2013, are automatically exempt. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026.