Public Institutions of Higher Education - Pregnant and Parenting Students - Plan and Reporting

SB 420 requires all public institutions of higher education in Maryland (excluding specific exceptions like University of Maryland Global Campus) to collect demographic data on students' parental status, including whether they are parents, legal guardians, or have caregiving responsibilities. It mandates these institutions to adopt a formal support plan for pregnant and parenting students, including referrals to government assistance programs like WIC, child care scholarships, Medicaid, and parenting resources. The Maryland Higher Education Commission must collect this data annually, compile it into reports, and submit summaries to legislative committees starting September 1, 2027. This bill directly affects pregnant and parenting students by requiring colleges to provide structured support services and track demographic needs.