Dear Chairs,

We are writing to request that the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review hold and schedule a hearing on Proposed Regulation 25-157, which amends COMAR 13A.01.02.01.

We are aware that several of the undersigned members have individually requested a hold and hearing on this regulation. We are reiterating and offering our support for this request.

This regulation has sparked considerable public concern. The open-ended appeals process created by this regulatory change represents a significant departure from state policy. To that end, we believe it is prudent for the Committee to thoroughly review this change and be provided the opportunity to question the Department of Education and the State Superintendent on its necessity. A hearing will also provide the public with the opportunity to express their own concerns.

As you are aware, an emergency regulation is currently in effect through January 19, 2026. Holding a hearing on the permanent regulation change will have no impact on the emergency regulation. What it will do is give us all the time and opportunity to properly vet this regulatory change and determine if it is in the best interests of our state.

Thank you in advance for considering this matter.

Check out the letter here.