Bill > SB224

This bill modifies Maryland's laws regarding Opioid-Associated Disease Prevention and Outreach Programs by changing the appeal process and the composition of the Standing Advisory Committee. Currently, when a local health department or community-based organization receives an adverse decision about operating an opioid prevention program, they can appeal to the Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services. The bill replaces this with the ability to appeal directly to the Secretary of Health or the Secretary's designee. The bill also updates the membership requirements for the Standing Advisory Committee, removing specific references to the "Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services" and allowing more flexibility in committee composition. The Standing Advisory Committee will continue to provide technical assistance to programs, helping them develop operating procedures for needle collection and distribution, community outreach strategies, and protocols for linking participants to substance use treatment services. The committee will maintain its diverse membership, including representatives from healthcare, law enforcement, public health, and individuals with personal experience related to substance use. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aim to streamline the administrative processes for opioid prevention and outreach programs in Maryland.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Finance (S)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0224?ys=2025RS