§ 7–14A-02
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 7-14A-02 (2026)
Title 7. Public Schools
Subtitle 14A. Operation of Public Schools During a Prolonged State of Emergency -- Virtual Education Plans
§ 7–14A-02LinkCopy Citation
(a)
On written request of a county superintendent or a determination by the State Superintendent that immediate action is necessary, the State Superintendent may declare a prolonged state of emergency that prevents regular, in–person attendance at a public school for at least 14 consecutive school days due to:
(1)
A natural disaster;
(2)
A civil disaster;
(3)
A public health emergency; or
(4)
A specific security threat identified by federal, State, or local law enforcement.
(b)
In making a declaration of a prolonged state of emergency under this section, the State Superintendent shall:
(1)
Consult the Governor, and if appropriate:
(i)
The Maryland Department of Emergency Management;
(ii)
The Department of State Police; or
(iii)
The Maryland Department of Health;
(2)
Issue the declaration in writing;
(3)
Indicate in the declaration:
(i)
The nature of the emergency; and
(ii)
The specific local school systems or individual schools threatened or affected, unless the emergency is statewide in nature; and
(4)
Disseminate the declaration promptly by means calculated to publicize the contents of the declaration.
(c)
If an emergency threatens or affects a particular school within a local school system, the State Superintendent may declare a prolonged state of emergency for that school.
(d)
(1)
A prolonged state of emergency declared in accordance with this section may be terminated by:
(i)
A joint resolution by the General Assembly;
(ii)
An affirmative vote by the State Board; or
(iii)
A decision by the State Superintendent.
(2)
If a prolonged state of emergency is terminated by any method listed under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the State Superintendent shall issue a declaration disseminated promptly by means calculated to publicize the termination of the prolonged state of emergency.
(e)
Nothing in this subtitle may be construed to limit or interfere with the responsibilities of the Secretary of Health under Title 18 of the Health – General Article in the event of a public health emergency.