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Bill

SB 685

State Department of Education - Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct Model Response Policy - Requirements

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Gile

Maryland requires schools to adopt state model policies for responding to sexual abuse and misconduct, establishing uniform reporting and investigation procedures statewide.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 639
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Bill Summary · SB 685

Legislative bill overview

SB 685 requires the Maryland State Department of Education to develop and establish a model response policy for schools to follow when addressing sexual abuse and sexual misconduct. The bill mandates that local school systems adopt or adapt this model policy to create consistent, standardized procedures for reporting, investigating, and responding to such incidents across all Maryland schools.

Why is this important

Sexual abuse and misconduct in schools is a serious issue that affects student safety and wellbeing. Standardized response policies ensure that all students, regardless of which school district they attend, receive consistent protections and that perpetrators face uniform accountability measures. Clear procedures also protect schools legally and reduce confusion among staff about mandatory reporting obligations and investigation protocols.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Local school systems may argue that adopting or adapting new policies requires significant administrative resources, staff training, and potential legal review
  • Local control versus state mandate: Some may contend that schools should have flexibility in developing their own policies rather than following state-mandated models, citing varying community needs
  • Sufficiency of the model policy: Debates may arise over whether the state-developed model adequately addresses all types of misconduct or scenarios that could occur in diverse school environments

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

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