In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated. “Alteration” means a change to an existing play area that affects the usability of the play area. “Alteration” does not include normal maintenance to an existing play area that does not affect the usability of the play area. “Communication board” means a device that displays photos, symbols, or illustrations with words and braille to supplement or replace spoken language as a means of expression and communication. “Local governing body” has the meaning stated in § 5–901 of this title. “Pilot program” means the Maryland Recreation Communication Boards Pilot Program established under § 5–2B–03 of this subtitle. “Play area” means a portion of a site containing play components designed and constructed for children. “Site” means: A parcel of land with boundaries marked by a property line; or A designated portion of a public right–of–way.

This section applies only to play areas located within a public park or recreation area under the jurisdiction of the Department or a local governing body. Subject to the availability of funding under the pilot program, the Department shall construct a communication board in each newly constructed play area under its jurisdiction. Each local governing body responsible for the construction of play areas that receives a grant from the pilot program shall construct at least one communication board in each newly constructed play area under its jurisdiction. The Department and each local governing body responsible for the construction of play areas may construct a communication board in an existing play area under its jurisdiction when making alterations to that play area.

There is a Maryland Recreation Communication Boards Pilot Program. The purpose of the pilot program is to, subject to the availability of funding, improve play area accessibility by covering the costs of purchasing and installing communication boards at State and local parks. The Department shall administer the pilot program. A local governing body may apply to the Department for a grant from the pilot program. Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, and in awarding a grant to a local governing body under this section, the Department shall award a grant equal to the cost of purchasing and installing each communication board. A grant may not exceed $3,000 for each communication board that is purchased and installed. The Department shall prioritize the award of grants to a local governing body that is installing a communication board in a newly constructed play area. On or before July 1, 2025, and July 1, 2026, the Department shall submit an interim report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, that provides an evaluation of the pilot program. On or before July 1, 2027, the Department shall submit a final report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, on the pilot program, including a recommendation on whether the pilot program should be continued.