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House approves allowing GED exam in Spanish; debate highlights language and workforce concerns
Summary
House Bill 325 passed on third reading, permitting individuals to take all components of the GED exam in either English or Spanish. Supporters said the change expands access for English learners; opponents argued it undermines workforce readiness and preferred boosting ESOL programs instead.
Annapolis, Feb. 24 — The House approved House Bill 325 on third reading, allowing test‑takers to choose to take all components of the high‑school equivalency examination (GED) in either English or Spanish.
The bill’s proponents said offering the GED in Spanish would expand access for English language learners and help more residents enter the workforce. “What this bill says is that in Maryland, we want you to do your best,” said the delegate from Prince George’s County, who also described the measure as a pathway to opportunity for Spanish‑speaking residents.
Opponents argued that the GED indicates readiness for college or career and that administering the test in Spanish would lower its value as proof of English proficiency. “The GED tells employers and those who receive it that they are either college or career ready,” said the delegate from Baltimore County. “You are not college ready if you cannot take a GED in English.”
Supporters responded that the affected individuals often learn English on the job and that the test evaluates reasoning skills as well as language. A floor speaker noted the bill limits the alternate language to Spanish for now to contain the fiscal impact.
Vote: The clerk recorded 98 votes in the affirmative; House Bill 325 was declared passed.
Context: Debate on the floor emphasized two competing priorities — expanding credential access for non‑English speakers and maintaining a credential that signals English proficiency to employers. Several speakers urged additional investment in ESOL programs alongside passage.
