By AI, Created 9:51 PM UTC, May 29, 2026, /AGP/ – Maryland has enacted HB 1118, a law that will require insurers and Medicaid to cover standardized perinatal behavioral health screenings during pregnancy and the first year after birth. The measure is aimed at catching maternal mental health conditions earlier and connecting families to follow-up care.
Why it matters: – Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders affect an estimated 1 in 5 mothers. – HB 1118 is designed to make screening more consistent during pregnancy, postpartum care and well-child visits. – The law also aims to turn a positive screen into a referral pathway, not just a diagnosis.
What happened: – Governor Wes Moore signed HB 1118, the Health, Health Insurance, and Health Occupations: Perinatal Behavioral Health Conditions Act, into law this week. – The legislation was sponsored by Delegate Jennifer White Holland. – Maryland insurers and the Maryland Medical Assistance Program will be required to cover standardized screenings for perinatal behavioral health conditions. – The screenings apply during pregnancy and through the first year of a child’s life. – The Maryland Department of Health must identify evidence-based screening tools and connect mothers to referral resources after a positive screen. – Screening requirements begin July 1, 2026. – Insurance coverage provisions begin in January 2027…