Counties across the country continue to play a central role in delivering health and behavioral health services, particularly for children and families who may face barriers to care. In an article from NACo, federal lawmakers are advancing bipartisan legislation to extend the School-Based Health Centers (SBHC) grant program through 2031, an effort that would sustain and expand a proven model for delivering care directly to students. Introduced by Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) and Troy Balderson (R-Ohio),…

As Maryland continues to confront rising behavioral health challenges, state lawmakers have advanced a measure to support a more coordinated approach to suicide prevention at the local level. During the 2026 legislative session, the Maryland General Assembly passed HB 1012, sponsored by Delegate Kris Fair and supported by MACo, which authorizes counties and municipalities to establish multidisciplinary and multiagency suicide fatality review teams. Suicide remains a significant public health concern across Maryland communities. Counties are…