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Bill

SB 113

Human Services - Department of Aging and Commission on Aging (Longevity Ready Maryland Act)

2026 Regular Session

SB 113 creates a new Maryland Department of Aging and Commission on Aging to consolidate fragmented elder services under unified oversight and policy coordination.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 94
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Bill Summary · SB 113

Legislative bill overview

SB 113, the Longevity Ready Maryland Act, reorganizes Maryland's aging services infrastructure by establishing a new Department of Aging separate from the Department of Human Services and creates a Commission on Aging to guide policy. The bill consolidates existing aging-related programs and functions under unified leadership to improve coordination and service delivery for older adults.

Why is this important

Maryland's aging population is growing rapidly, with projections showing significant increases in residents over 65 in coming decades. Dedicated departmental focus and a formal commission could improve service accessibility, reduce administrative fragmentation, and allow the state to develop more cohesive strategies for elder care, healthcare coordination, and aging-related social services.

Potential points of contention

  • Bureaucratic restructuring costs: Creating a new department requires upfront investment in administrative infrastructure, IT systems, and personnel transfers, with uncertain long-term fiscal benefits
  • Implementation timeline and service continuity: Transferring programs between agencies risks service disruptions for vulnerable populations if transition planning is inadequate
  • Commission composition and authority: Questions remain about who serves on the Commission, their decision-making power versus the department secretary, and whether it duplicates existing advisory bodies

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

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