Strong Advocacy Matters

In 2017, the Maryland Legislature passed the HOPE Act, within which is the Keep the Door Open Act. These acts increase provider payments to 3.5% – the first increase in over a decade. This allows for an increase in quality and quantity of behavioral health services in the community.

However, at the beginning of 2018, the Governor’s budget only included a 2%, a little over half of what was promised. The Maryland Behavioral Health Coalition and other agencies banded together to advocate for the whole 3.5%. PDG joined in and attended the 2018 Keep the Door Open Rally on February 22nd.

On 3/9/18, the Senate passed the bill that would restore funding. As of 3/15/18, the bill is in the House and is awaiting a hearing.

UPDATE:

On April 9th, 2018, the Maryland General Assembly session ended. With its end came several positive outcomes for behavioral health. Most notably and thanks to strong advocacy, the HOPE Act’s 3.5% increase was fully restored! This means increased opportunities and improved quality of care for mental illnesses in our community. Great job Maryland!!

Many other powerful strides were also made for improved mental health treatment. See the full summary here.

Together we can make great change. Thank you to everyone who spoke up, contacted their representatives, and made this possible. We’re looking forward to what the future brings!