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Bill

SB 188

Community Health and Safety Works Grant Program and Fund - Alterations

2025 Regular Session

Maryland bill establishes new Community Health and Safety Works Grant Program with dedicated fund to distribute grants to local organizations addressing public health and safety needs.

Hearing 1/29 at 10:30 a.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 188

Legislative bill overview

SB 188 establishes the Community Health and Safety Works Grant Program and Fund in Maryland, creating a dedicated funding mechanism to support community-based health and safety initiatives. The bill allocates resources through a new fund structure to provide grants to organizations addressing public health and safety challenges at the local level.

Why is this important

This legislation creates a formalized, sustainable funding stream for grassroots health and safety programs that often operate with limited resources. By establishing a dedicated fund, the bill aims to expand the reach and stability of community-driven interventions in public health and safety, potentially reducing gaps in service delivery across Maryland's communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source clarity: The bill's specification of how the fund will be financed (general revenue, fees, other sources) will likely generate debate about whether new revenue measures are appropriate or existing budgets should be redirected.
  • Grant allocation criteria: Questions may arise about how grants will be distributed—whether funding prioritizes rural versus urban areas, specific health conditions, or particular populations, and who controls those decisions.
  • Administrative overhead: Concerns may emerge regarding the cost of administering a new grant program and whether sufficient funds reach actual community programs versus bureaucratic expenses.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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