WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 875

Commission on History, Culture, and Civics in Education

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gabriel Acevero and 12 co-sponsors

Maryland creates a commission to study and recommend improvements to how public schools teach history, culture, and civics curriculum.

Hearing 2/24 at 11:00 a.m.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 875

Legislative bill overview

HB 875 establishes a Commission on History, Culture, and Civics in Education to study and make recommendations about how Maryland schools teach history, cultural studies, and civics. The bill creates a formal body to examine curriculum standards and educational practices in these subject areas and report findings to the legislature.

Why is this important

Curriculum decisions shape what students learn about their state, nation, and diverse communities—influencing civic engagement, historical literacy, and social cohesion. This commission could influence educational standards affecting thousands of Maryland students and potentially set precedent for how the state approaches social studies instruction.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum control debates: Questions about who decides what history and perspectives are taught—educators, politicians, parents, or community representatives—and whether the commission reflects diverse viewpoints
  • "Culture and civics" scope ambiguity: Unclear definition of what "culture" encompasses could lead to disputes over representation of marginalized histories, contemporary social movements, or contested historical narratives
  • Implementation and funding: No specified budget or timeline provided; unclear whether recommendations will be binding or merely advisory, and who funds the commission's work

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.