On February 21, 2025, Maryland's General Assembly introduced House Bill 840, a significant legislative proposal aimed at addressing the needs of pregnant and parenting students within the state's public senior higher education institutions. The bill seeks to ensure that all students, regardless of gender, are protected from discrimination, particularly pregnancy discrimination, in alignment with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

The bill outlines key provisions that require each public senior higher education institution, including the University System of Maryland, Morgan State University, and St. Mary’s College of Maryland, to adopt a comprehensive plan to support pregnant and parenting students. This plan must include referrals to both on-campus and off-campus services that assist students in accessing government assistance programs, such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

Notably, the bill does not extend its provisions to certain institutions, including the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Studies, the University of Maryland Global Campus, and the University of Baltimore. This exclusion has sparked discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders regarding the potential implications for students at these institutions.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it has garnered support from various advocacy groups who emphasize the importance of creating an inclusive educational environment for all students. However, some opposition has emerged, primarily focusing on concerns about the administrative burden on institutions to implement the required plans and the potential costs associated with compliance.

The implications of House Bill 840 are significant, as it aims to enhance educational access and equity for pregnant and parenting students, a demographic that often faces unique challenges in higher education. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could lead to improved retention rates among these students, ultimately contributing to better educational outcomes and economic stability for families.

As the General Assembly continues to deliberate on House Bill 840, the outcome remains uncertain, but its potential to reshape the landscape of support for pregnant and parenting students in Maryland's higher education system is clear. The next steps will involve further discussions and possible amendments as lawmakers seek to address the concerns raised during initial reviews.