Public Health - Maryland Interested Parties Advisory Group - Establishment

SB 920 establishes the Maryland Interested Parties Advisory Group to address access to home and community-based services (like in-home care) and workforce shortages for direct care workers under Maryland’s Medicaid program. The group, composed of 12 appointed members (including consumers, direct care workers, consumer organizations, worker groups, and provider associations), must reflect Maryland’s diversity and meet quarterly starting November 2025. It will advise the Maryland Department of Health on ensuring Medicaid payment rates are sufficient for service access and that an adequate, qualified workforce exists. The bill directly affects Medicaid recipients, direct care workers, and healthcare providers by creating a structured forum for their input on critical service delivery issues. The Department of Health must provide logistical and financial support to enable meaningful participation from workers and consumers.