The new year has begun, and Maryland’s legislative session is officially underway. Over the coming weeks, lawmakers will make decisions that directly affect children, families, behavioral health supports, education, and community services across the state.
This is an important moment for families to get involved. The voices of parents and caregivers bring real-life experience to policy conversations, and those perspectives are especially impactful as bills are introduced, debated, and heard in committee.
Below is a general timeline of what to expect during Maryland’s legislative session and how you can stay engaged. Whether you’re sharing your family’s story, submitting testimony, or staying informed about bills that matter to you, your advocacy plays a powerful role in shaping Maryland’s policies.
Let’s get ready for a strong and effective session together.
December: Setting the Stage
Before the session began, important groundwork took place behind the scenes.
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Lawmakers finalized the bills they planned to introduce.
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Advocacy organizations met with legislators to seek sponsorship of key legislation.
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Bills were drafted and revised.
This early work laid the foundation for the fast-paced advocacy happening now.
January: Session Is Underway
With the General Assembly in session, legislative activity is moving quickly.
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Many new bills are being introduced.
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Committee hearings are beginning.
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Advocates, including families, are meeting with lawmakers to share experiences, concerns, and priorities.
What families can do now:
January is a great time to start tracking bills related to behavioral health, education, and family supports and to prepare or submit testimony as hearings are scheduled.
February: Peak Advocacy Activity
February is typically the busiest and most influential month of the legislative session.
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The deadline for introducing new bills is in early February.
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Most legislation for the year will be available.
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Written testimony deadlines come quickly and frequently.
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Committee hearings are in full swing.
What families can do:
Stay engaged and be ready to act. Submitting written testimony, attending hearings, or contacting your legislators can make a meaningful difference, especially when family voices highlight the real-world impact of policy decisions.
February also includes MCF’s Family Day in Annapolis, a valuable opportunity for families to:
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Show support for family-centered policies
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Connect with other families and advocates
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Speak directly with legislators
Registration opened January 1 – sign up if you haven’t already!
Your Voice Matters
Advocacy is already happening, and family voices are essential. When families speak up, lawmakers gain a clearer understanding of how policies affect real people and real lives, particularly in behavioral health.
There is still time to make an impact this session, and we’re glad to advocate alongside you.