Bill > HB612

This bill requires the Director of Education and Workforce Skills Training for Correctional Institutions to consult with the State Correctional Ombudsman, who is an independent official overseeing correctional institutions, regarding the operation of education and workforce skills training programs within adult correctional facilities. Additionally, it establishes a new Certified Peer Recovery Specialist Training Program for Incarcerated Individuals within the Maryland Department of Labor; this program aims to train incarcerated individuals to become Certified Peer Recovery Specialists, meaning individuals certified to provide peer support services, which are nonclinical activities offered by people with lived experience of recovery from mental or substance use disorders to help others facing similar challenges. The bill also authorizes the Governor to allocate sufficient funding for this program in the annual budget starting in fiscal year 2028 and each year thereafter, with the goal of preparing participants for post-release employment in behavioral health and community recovery services.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0612?ys=2026RS