Bill > SB448

This bill establishes the Self-Directed Mental Health Services Pilot Program in the Maryland Department of Health, designed to give 100 adult Maryland Medical Assistance Program recipients more control over their mental health services. The program will allow participants to choose and manage their own services, including clinical mental health services, medications, transportation, vocational training, technology, housing supports, and personal assistance. Participants will receive a support broker to help them create a personalized service plan and a budget they can use flexibly to meet their individual needs. The Department will prioritize individuals who have been unsuccessful in traditional behavioral health services, have multiple disabilities, severe mental illness, unmet cultural needs, or are at risk of institutionalization. The pilot program will run for three years, during which the Department must collect data on participant outcomes, assess the effectiveness of self-directed services, and evaluate the potential for expanding the program. The Governor will be required to include $300,000 in the budget for the program in fiscal years 2027-2029, and by November 1, 2029, the Department must submit a report to the Governor and General Assembly with findings and recommendations. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and will automatically expire on June 30, 2030.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0448?ys=2025RS