DHSHome Test
DHS Policy Priorities
Restoring Stolen Benefits HB0175 | SB0232
Directs the Stolen Benefits Reimbursement program to operate within the state budget, meaning the Maryland legislature must appropriate funding to continue the program or modify the state requirement to replace stolen benefits. This proposal also ensures that eligible benefits can be securely withdrawn as cash through ATMs in Maryland.
Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) Unlicensed Settings SB0191
Establishes that stays in unlicensed settings, such as hotels, are not appropriate for youth experiencing out-of-home care, except in limited circumstances. Allows for rare exceptions only after the agency makes enhanced efforts to reunify youth with their family, place youth with kin, or identify an otherwise appropriate placement. Limits stays in unlicensed settings by restricting the use of state funds for unlicensed stays beyond 10 days unless the agency establishes they have made specific efforts and the DHS Secretary provides express permission.
Child Support Administration Modernization HB0218 | SB0195
Modernizes how DHS meets our federal and state obligations to collect child support by improving collection and fairness. First, it will create a more equitable child support system for Marylanders by increasing the amount of child support collected. It will include in parental income winnings from sports betting, legal awards, and independent contractor income. The proposal will also distinguish noncustodial parents who cannot pay their child support obligation from those who will not pay before referring an obligor in arrears to the MVA for driver or professional license suspension.
Adult Protective Services Records Confidentiality HB0246 | SB0205
Streamlines information sharing between government agencies, improves collaboration and ultimately improves the state’s ability to address and prosecute the maltreatment of adults. Increases protections for the adults we serve and assists in prosecuting perpetrators of abuse.
LDSS Audit Frequency HB0251 | SB0230
Extends the current local Departments of Social Services (LDSS) audit interval from once every three years to intervals ranging from three to four years, similar to the audit frequency of the Department of Legislative Services’ Office of Legislative Audits. The proposed change will provide adequate time for the LDSS to implement corrective actions addressing audit findings and will enable our Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to prioritize its resources.