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HB 912

Institutions of Higher Education - Instructor Training - Accommodations for Students With Disabilities

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Bagnall Tudball and 17 co-sponsors

Maryland would require college instructors to receive mandatory training on disability accommodations to improve accessibility and support for students with disabilities in higher education.

Hearing 3/05 at 1:30 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 912

Legislative bill overview

HB 912 requires Maryland institutions of higher education to provide mandatory training for instructors on accommodating students with disabilities. The bill establishes standards for how faculty must be educated on accessibility practices, assistive technologies, and inclusive teaching methods to support students with various disabilities in academic settings.

Why is this important

Approximately 19% of college students report having disabilities, yet many face barriers in accessing course materials and participating fully in classes due to inadequate instructor knowledge. Systematic faculty training can significantly improve educational outcomes for disabled students and reduce costly legal disputes over ADA compliance. This addresses a documented gap between institutional disability services offices and individual faculty members' preparedness.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Institutions may argue training requirements create budgetary burdens, particularly for smaller colleges, though supporters counter this is a legal obligation already
  • Training scope and quality: Debate over whether training should be one-time or ongoing, who develops curricula, and enforcement mechanisms if training is insufficient
  • Academic freedom concerns: Some faculty may view detailed accommodation requirements as limiting pedagogical autonomy, though disability advocates argue accommodations don't compromise academic standards

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

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