Today, lawmakers across the aisle joined with Governor Hogan to recognize the enactment of The Thomas Bloom Raskin Act which will establish voluntary mental health check-ins from trained and accredited mental health professionals through 211 Maryland. The legislation will also connect callers with crisis services if needed.

View a video of the event below:

Congressman Raskin commented, “Governor Hogan, I’m moved and honored that this was the first bill that was signed this year, and I’m moved to think that we have a state that has worked together across party lines … to focus on emotional and mental health,.

Hogan thanked the Raskin for “channeling [his] grief” to bring mental health awareness to the forefront. “I know that countless lives will be saved because of the law that now bears your son’s name,” he said.

According to Maryland Matters, The law will go into effect on July 1. Quinton Askew, president and CEO of 211 Maryland, said that anyone interested in the program for themselves or their loved ones can sign up early by texting “Health check” to 211631.

Read the full article with details.
Learn more about 211 Maryland.