Maryland Advances Bill Allowing Condom Vending Machines in Schools

The proposed legislation, which passed the House, would repeal the ban on selling contraceptives in school vending machines, drawing sharp debate over its scope and implications.

Maryland's House of Delegates passed House Bill 380 with an 89-41 vote, moving it to the Senate for consideration.
The bill would repeal a law that prohibits selling contraceptives in vending machines at public schools, including elementary and secondary schools.
Proponents argue the legislation improves access to contraceptives, promoting student health, privacy, and autonomy.
Critics, including Republican Delegate Kathy Szeliga, oppose the bill’s broad scope, particularly its inclusion of elementary and preschool settings.
The bill does not mandate schools to install vending machines but allows local school systems to decide whether to implement them.