Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB875

Introduced
2/2/24  
Refer
2/2/24  
Report Pass
3/7/24  
Engrossed
3/14/24  
Refer
3/15/24  
Report Pass
3/25/24  
Enrolled
3/28/24  
Chaptered
4/25/24  

Caption

Miriam Kelty Aging and Senior Social Connection Hub and Spoke Pilot Program

Impact

SB875 is expected to significantly impact the support structure available for senior citizens in Maryland. By implementing the hub and spoke model, the legislation aims to centralize administration of services, thus alleviating burdens on local volunteers and improving service provision. It implies a potential increase in funding and resources as it allocates $80,000 annually for a period of three years specifically for the pilot, which could enhance the operational capabilities of the Montgomery County Village Consortium and similar organizations. Moreover, the program is designed to develop best practices that could be replicated in other areas of the state, setting a new precedent for local senior support initiatives.

Summary

Senate Bill 875 establishes the Miriam Kelty Aging and Senior Social Connection Hub and Spoke Pilot Program within the Maryland Department of Aging. The intent of the bill is to design and operate a pilot program aimed at fostering social connections among seniors who choose to age in place. It proposes a hub and spoke model where the Montgomery County Village Consortium will take the lead role, coordinating efforts to support local 'villages' that assist aging community members through volunteer efforts and social activities. This program will primarily focus on combating loneliness and enhancing the overall quality of life for seniors.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB875 appears to be predominantly positive, with support for enhancing services and connections for seniors aging in place. Advocates view the pilot program as a proactive measure that not only addresses the critical issue of senior loneliness but also strengthens the community's capability to provide tailored support. Nonetheless, there may be unanswered questions regarding the long-term sustainability of such programs once the initial funding phase concludes, which could lead to concerns about the program's effectiveness over time.

Contention

Notable points of contention have not prominently surfaced as part of the discussions around SB875. The primary focus has been on the benefits of the proposed pilot, though there may be underlying concerns regarding the continued funding and support for these initiatives in subsequent years after the three-year pilot phase ends. Additionally, the need for community involvement and the level of volunteer engagement necessary for the program's success could provoke discussion among local stakeholders about resource allocation and management.

Companion Bills

MD HB1103

Crossfiled Miriam Kelty Aging and Senior Social Connection Hub and Spoke Pilot Program

Previously Filed As

MD HB614

Department of Aging - Long-Term Care and Dementia Care Navigation Programs

MD SB228

Department of Aging - Long-Term Care and Dementia Care Navigation Programs

MD HB982

State Employees – Programs and Scholarships for Human Services Careers and Probation Agents and State Contributions to Supplemental Retirement Plans

MD HB848

Drinking Water - Indirect Potable Reuse Pilot Program - Establishment

MD HB1190

Juveniles - Truancy Reduction Pilot Program - Expansion

MD SB351

Maryland Legal Services Corporation - Affordable Life, Wills, and Estate Planning for Seniors Grant Program

MD SB407

Drinking Water - Indirect Potable Reuse Pilot Program - Establishment

MD HB201

Creation of a State Debt – Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loan of 2023, and the Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loans of 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022

MD SB581

Behavioral Health Care Coordination Value-Based Purchasing Pilot Program

MD SB220

Juveniles - Truancy Reduction Pilot Program - Expansion

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.