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Bill

HB 1440

Courts - Parental Accommodations

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lauren Arikan and 7 co-sponsors

Maryland courts must provide reasonable accommodations like childcare assistance and flexible scheduling to parents and guardians in legal proceedings to improve access to justice.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 137
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Bill Summary · HB 1440

Legislative bill overview

HB 1440 requires Maryland courts to provide reasonable accommodations for parents and guardians appearing in legal proceedings, such as childcare assistance, flexible scheduling, or remote participation options. The bill became law in April 2025 after passing both chambers and receiving gubernatorial approval. It establishes baseline standards for court accessibility for individuals with childcare responsibilities.

Why is this important

Court proceedings often occur during standard business hours, creating barriers for single parents and guardians who lack childcare arrangements or financial resources to hire care. By mandating accommodations, the bill aims to improve equal access to the justice system and reduce case dismissals or defaults caused by childcare conflicts. This addresses a practical equity issue that disproportionately affects lower-income parents and primary caregivers.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Courts must absorb expenses for childcare services, scheduling flexibility, and remote hearing infrastructure without necessarily receiving proportional budget increases
  • Operational burden: Judges and court staff face increased administrative complexity in coordinating accommodations while managing heavy caseloads
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's definition of "reasonable accommodations" may lack specificity, creating inconsistent application across different courthouses and judges

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

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