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HB 1244

Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration Waiver Advisory Council - Establishment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 22 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes a Developmental Disabilities Administration Waiver Advisory Council to guide policy on community-based services for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 756
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Bill Summary · HB 1244

Legislative bill overview

HB 1244 establishes a Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Waiver Advisory Council in Maryland to provide guidance on waiver programs that serve individuals with developmental disabilities. The council will include representatives from affected families, service providers, advocacy organizations, and state agencies to inform policy decisions on these critical support services.

Why is this important

Waiver programs are essential for people with developmental disabilities, allowing them to receive services in community settings rather than institutions. Creating a formal advisory council ensures that the voices of clients, families, and providers directly shape how these programs evolve, potentially improving service quality, access, and responsiveness to changing needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation: Whether the advisory council's recommendations will have binding authority or merely advisory status, and if state budget constraints might limit implementation of suggested improvements
  • Representation balance: Determining whether all stakeholder groups (families, self-advocates, providers, disability rights organizations) have adequate and equal representation on the council
  • Scope of influence: Questions about whether the council can address systemic waitlist issues and service gaps, or if it will be limited to incremental waiver modifications

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

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