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HB 65

Community Health Worker Appreciation Day

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Bagnall Tudball

Maryland establishes Community Health Worker Appreciation Day to honor public health workers bridging healthcare access in underserved communities.

Hearing 4/03 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 65

Legislative bill overview

HB 65 establishes an official "Community Health Worker Appreciation Day" in Maryland, likely designating a specific date to recognize and honor community health workers for their contributions to public health. The bill has passed its second and third readings and received a favorable committee report from Health and Government Operations.

Why is this important

Community health workers serve as essential bridges between healthcare systems and underserved populations, improving health literacy and access to care in communities that often face health disparities. Official recognition can increase visibility for this workforce, potentially supporting recruitment, professional development, and policy advocacy for improved working conditions and compensation in this vital sector.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive: Critics may argue that a designated day provides symbolic recognition without addressing underlying issues like low wages, limited benefits, and lack of standardized credentialing for community health workers
  • Resource allocation: Questions may arise about whether legislative time spent on ceremonial designations could be redirected toward funding bills or regulatory changes that would materially improve working conditions
  • Scope and inclusivity: Depending on the bill's language, there could be debate about which workers qualify as "community health workers" and whether all relevant roles are properly acknowledged

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

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