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HB 60

Sickle Cell Disease - Institutions of Higher Education - Policies, Procedures, and Educational Campaigns (Kaitlyn's Law)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Edith Patterson

Maryland colleges must establish sickle cell disease policies, procedures, and educational campaigns to support affected students and raise campus awareness of the genetic disorder.

Second Reading Passed with Amendments
0
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Bill Summary · HB 60

Legislative bill overview

HB 60 requires Maryland institutions of higher education to develop and implement policies, procedures, and educational campaigns addressing sickle cell disease. The bill mandates that colleges and universities provide information about the genetic disorder to students, staff, and campus communities, likely including screening awareness and support resources.

Why is this important

Sickle cell disease disproportionately affects Black Americans and requires specialized medical knowledge and accommodations in campus settings. Without institutional awareness and support systems, affected students may face barriers to academic success, inadequate emergency response, or stigma. Educational campaigns and clear policies ensure campuses are equipped to support affected individuals and prevent health crises.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Requirements for developing new policies, training staff, and running educational campaigns impose financial burdens on institutions with limited budgets
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's language regarding what specific procedures and campaign elements are mandatory may be unclear, creating compliance uncertainty
  • Privacy concerns: Screening awareness initiatives could inadvertently pressure students to disclose health status or enable discrimination based on genetic information

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

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