On March 11, Associate Policy Director Sarah Sample testified before the Appropriations Committee in support of HB 1329 – Education – Public School Construction – Funding.
This bill seeks to adjust the State’s funding requirement for public school construction beginning in fiscal year 2027. It increases the annual minimum contribution for the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) by almost $100M. While this would still be about $75M less than what the Interagency Commission on School Construction (IAC) reports is needed immediately, it is an important step in the right direction for the State to catch up on vital school construction projects.
HB 1329 would boost support for the CIP, helping address a growing backlog of school construction and renovation projects across the state. Rising construction costs, aging facilities, and major education initiatives such as the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future are placing increasing demands on local capital budgets. This legislation represents a meaningful step toward restoring a balanced state–county partnership in funding safe, modern school facilities for Maryland students.
While the State is statutorily required to be a funding partner to the
counties in school maintenance and construction, the contributions have fallen short as needs continue to outpace available resources. Even projects that secure state approval often wait years for funding matches. The longer these plans sit in the pipeline, the more costly they become. A state-level investment that recognizes the needs and realities of Maryland schools now, will support learning for future generations in the years to come.
HB 1329’s cross-file, SB 934, was also heard on March 11 in the Budget and Taxation Committee. Sarah Sample submitted written testimony in support of this bill.
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