Bill > SB561

This bill expands the Maryland Medical Assistance Program's coverage for community violence prevention services, defining "community violence" as violence in public spaces by non-family members and "community violence prevention services" as evidence-based, trauma-informed support and non-psychiatric help provided by a "certified violence prevention professional" (a professional meeting specific training and certification requirements) to improve health outcomes, prevent repeat injuries, and reduce future violence. The bill mandates that the program reimburse these services when provided in person, regardless of location, and also requires reimbursement for services delivered via telehealth, which is defined to include synchronous and asynchronous communication, and even audio-only phone calls, as long as they result in billable services, but excludes services solely through email or fax. Furthermore, entities employing or contracting with these professionals are no longer required to be affiliated with a hospital or trauma center, and the Department of Health is directed to approve at least three training and certification programs for these professionals, each requiring at least 35 hours of initial training and 6 hours of continuing education every two years.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0561?ys=2026RS