ANNAPOLIS, MD—Dr. Meena Seshamani, an accomplished strategic leader with a deep understanding of health care policy and operations, has been appointed as the next Maryland Department of Health secretary. Governor Wes Moore announced the appointment this week and Dr. Seshamani is expected to begin her new role April 8, pending Maryland Senate confirmation. “Dr. Meena Seshamani is among the nation’s […]
ANNAPOLIS, MD—Maryland Governor Wes Moore this week announced a significant 38% decrease in fatal overdoses for the year 2024, marking a historic reduction from the previous year’s figures. The state reported 1,553 fatal overdoses last year, down from 2,511 in 2023. Moore attributed the decline to increased investments in behavioral health and substance use care, emphasizing the state’s commitment to […]
ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore has announced preliminary recommendations from the Government Efficiency Commission to modernize Maryland’s occupational permitting and licensing processes. The recommendations aim to streamline vendor credentialing, improve permitting reliability and predictability, and eliminate employment barriers for all Marylanders. “Modernizing state government is not just a talking point for us — it’s a governing philosophy,” Moore said. “As we […]
BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) is reminding residents about important safety reminders and service updates as the new year approaches. These reminders aim to ensure the safety of all road users, whether they are driving, biking, or walking. One major change taking effect on January 1, 2025, is a new tiered fine system for work […]
BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Health on Tuesday announced the state’s first three cold-related deaths for the 2024-2025 winter season. All three individuals were men, two in their 60s and one in his 30s. Two deaths occurred in Baltimore City, while the third was in Baltimore County. The first death was reported on November 23, with the other two occurring […]
ANNAPOLIS, MD—Maryland has launched a new mobile-friendly tool to help residents see if they qualify for benefits such as Medicaid, food stamps, and energy assistance. Governor Wes Moore announced the launch of Maryland’s Unified Benefits Screener on December 13, 2024. It’s a joint initiative between the Maryland Departments of Human Services, Health, and Information Technology. Marylanders can quickly check their […]
BALTIMORE, MD—With winter weather settling in, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) is urging residents to take precautions against cold-related illnesses. The department emphasizes the importance of limiting exposure to the cold and dressing in layers when venturing outdoors. Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services, urges Marylanders to limit cold exposure. “If you must go outside, wear […]
BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Health has released new resources to help businesses comply with the updated Clean Indoor Air Act. As of July 1, 2024, the act prohibits electronic smoking devices, such as vapes and e-cigarettes, in all indoor areas open to the public. “When the original Clean Indoor Air Act passed in 2007, electronic smoking devices were not […]