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HB 297

Maryland Health Benefit Exchange - State-Based Young Adult Health Insurance Subsidies Pilot Program - Sunset Repeal

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Bagnall Tudball and 14 co-sponsors

Maryland permanently extends state-funded health insurance subsidies for young adults, eliminating the pilot program's expiration date to ensure continued affordability support.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 721
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Bill Summary · HB 297

Legislative bill overview

HB 297 repeals the sunset provision of Maryland's State-Based Young Adult Health Insurance Subsidies Pilot Program, making the program permanent rather than allowing it to expire. The program provides state-funded subsidies to help young adults (typically ages 19-34) afford health insurance through Maryland's health benefit exchange.

Why is this important

Young adults represent a critical demographic for health insurance markets—their participation helps stabilize premium costs for all enrollees. By making subsidies permanent, Maryland signals sustained commitment to keeping young adult coverage affordable, potentially reducing uninsured rates in this age group and improving overall exchange sustainability.

Potential points of contention

  • State budget impact: Permanent subsidies create ongoing fiscal obligations; critics may question whether Maryland can sustain these costs long-term without identifying dedicated revenue sources
  • Program effectiveness data: The decision to eliminate the sunset clause suggests confidence in the pilot's results, but debate may center on whether the program has demonstrably improved outcomes or if data justifies permanence
  • Equity concerns: Questions about whether subsidies should extend to all young adults or whether means-testing or age-range adjustments would be more equitable use of state resources

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

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