Maryland SB299 mandates county boards of education to allow therapy dogs in public schools and adopt related policies.

Maryland SB299 requires county boards of education to permit the use of therapy dogs in public schools. Each therapy dog must be accompanied by a handler. The policy must include certification requirements for therapy dogs, guidelines for handlers, rules for when and where therapy dogs can be present, notification requirements for parents, students, and school staff, and guidelines for managing allergies or discomfort around dogs. The act takes effect July 1, 2026.

Maryland SB299 mandates county boards of education to allow therapy dogs in public schools and adopt related policies.

Maryland SB299 requires county boards of education to permit the use of therapy dogs in public schools. Each therapy dog must be accompanied by a handler. The policy must include certification requirements for therapy dogs, guidelines for handlers, rules for when and where therapy dogs can be present, notification requirements for parents, students, and school staff, and guidelines for managing allergies or discomfort around dogs. The act takes effect July 1, 2026.