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Bill

HB 117

Public Schools - Airway Clearing Device Availability and Use - Policy (Bowen Levy Airway Clearing Device Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ric Metzgar

Requires Maryland public schools to establish policies ensuring airway clearing devices are available and staff trained to use them during respiratory emergencies in students.

Hearing 1/29 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 117

Legislative bill overview

HB 117, the Bowen Levy Airway Clearing Device Act, requires Maryland public schools to establish policies for the availability and use of airway clearing devices (such as manual resuscitators or suction devices). The bill mandates that schools have these devices accessible and that staff are trained in their proper use for emergency respiratory situations.

Why is this important

Students with certain medical conditions, disabilities, or those experiencing choking or respiratory distress may require immediate airway clearing intervention. Having standardized policies and trained personnel could be life-saving in schools, where medical emergencies can occur far from immediate hospital access. This addresses a potential gap in emergency preparedness that currently varies widely between school districts.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation burden: Schools would need to purchase equipment, provide staff training, and potentially hire or designate personnel, raising concerns about unfunded mandates on already-stretched district budgets
  • Liability and scope of practice: Questions about whether non-medical school staff should be using advanced airway devices, and what liability protections or indemnifications schools receive
  • Equity of access: Risk that well-funded districts implement robust programs while under-resourced districts struggle, potentially creating disparities in student safety

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

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