2019 Maryland Legislative Session Summary
The 2019 Maryland Legislative Session ended on Monday, April 8th. Please read our full 2019 Session Summary for a detailed review of all the 2019 behavioral health victories.
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) in Jails (HB 116)
Legislation passed that will require individuals entering local correctional facilities to be assessed for opioid use disorders and that all forms of medication assisted treatment be available. Those individuals diagnosed with an opioid use disorder must be provided with behavioral health counseling, access to peer recovery specialists and comprehensive reentry plans. Local correctional facilities will be phased in starting with four counties and then gradually expanding to the remaining jurisdictions.
Blueprint for Maryland’s Future (SB 1030)
This legislation mandates funding in fiscal years 2020 and 2021 for a number of priorities identified by the Kirwan Commission. It provides funding to support mental health coordinators in each jurisdiction. Schools in lower income areas will receive additional resources and funding. These schools will be required to employ a dedicated staff member to coordinate a number of wraparound services including enhanced access to behavioral health resources and mental health practitioners. It also includes a provision requiring trauma-informed professional development for school staff. 
Fight for Fifteen (HB 116)
This legislation will phase in an increase in Maryland’s minimum wage to $15 an hour. The legislation includes an increase in funding for community behavioral health providers over the implementation period.
Fiscal Year 2020 Budget
The Fiscal Year 2020 budget maintains the increase in funding for community behavioral health services. The original budget proposed by the Governor included the 3.5 percent increase for community behavioral health services. In addition, the budget included funding for the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) Program piloted in Baltimore City.
Events
Children's Mental Health Matters Week
Children's Mental Health Matters Week is May 5 - 11, 2019. We are proud to be a community champion for children's mental health! Click here to learn more and join us!
Stoop Storytelling Series: Out of Stigma’s Shadow
On March 21, 2019 there will be a Stoop Storytelling Series about mental health, Out of Stigma’s Shadow: True, personal stories about mental health, mental illness, and the mysteries inside our heads . Click here to register.