Bill > HB1423

This bill requires the Maryland Department of Health to establish a Workgroup on Home- and Community-Based Services, which will be composed of various stakeholders including legislative members, state secretaries, and representatives from advocacy groups, service providers, and legal aid. The Workgroup's primary responsibility is to review and evaluate specific programs designed to provide services to individuals in their homes and communities, such as the Community First Choice Program and the Home and Community-Based Options Waiver. The Workgroup will examine aspects like eligibility, application processes, service delivery times, barriers to access, waitlists, provider reimbursement rates, and geographic diversity, with the goal of making recommendations for improvement. The Secretary of Health will chair the Workgroup, and the Department of Health will provide staff support. Members will not receive compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses. Finally, by October 1, 2027, the Maryland Department of Health must submit a report detailing the Workgroup's findings and recommendations to the Governor and relevant legislative committees. This Act will take effect on October 1, 2026, and will be repealed on September 30, 2028.

Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1423?ys=2026RS