Bill > SB550

This bill, the Health Care Decisions Act, proposes to remove a restriction that prevents a designated surrogate decision-maker from authorizing treatment for a mental disorder for an individual who has been legally determined to be incapable of making informed health care choices. Previously, a surrogate could make health care decisions for such individuals, but this specific type of treatment was prohibited. The bill amends existing law to allow surrogates to authorize treatment for mental disorders, in addition to other medical treatments, for those who are unable to make these decisions themselves. This change aims to expand the scope of decisions a surrogate can make to ensure comprehensive care for incapacitated individuals.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0550?ys=2026RS