State data shows opioid-related deaths have fallen to their lowest levels in a decade, driven by harm reduction efforts and local partnerships. In an article from the Maryland Reporter, Maryland is seeing significant progress in its fight against the opioid crisis, with opioid-related overdose deaths dropping 57% since their pandemic-era peak. According to a recent analysis by Capital News Service, the state recorded just over 1,000 opioid-related overdose deaths in 2025, down from more than…

Carroll County has named Dr. Matthew Levy as its new Health Officer, bringing public health leadership experience from both local and national roles. Dr. Levy previously served as Health Officer for Prince George’s County and, most recently, as Carroll County’s Deputy Health Officer. He has been serving in the role in an acting capacity since December. Throughout his career, Dr. Levy has focused on community-based care and expanding access to services. His work has included…

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…