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The crossover deadline for the 2025 Maryland Legislative Session was March 17. Bills generally need to pass one chamber by this date to be considered for final passage. This year, many critical budgetary measures remain unresolved at this point. State leaders need to address a deficit of more than $3 billion through some combination of spending cuts and revenue increases and the decisions are very challenging. The 988 Trust Fund should remain properly funded but other behavioral health budget measures, such as provider rate increases and funding for school mental health programs through the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future appear to be at risk.
The uncertainty at the federal level only compounds these state difficulties. Directives to freeze payments and lay off federal workers are reducing the federal funding available to the state and harming Maryland’s economy. As a result, Maryland’s budget outlook has worsened, and further disruptions and reductions seem likely.
To date, federal actions have not directly impacted service delivery. The 988 helpline is fully operational, harm reduction services remain available, and Congress has made no changes to Medicaid. We encourage Baltimore communities to continue to reach out and access 988 and other services as needed. BHSB is monitoring the situation closely and will provide regular updates.
Please read BHSB's 2025 Maryland Legislative Session Crossover Report for more information. We will release another report when the session ends in April.
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