Maryland lawmakers approved several measures this legislative session to support primary caregivers, particularly unpaid family members caring for children with disabilities, aging adults and people with behavioral health needs.
House Bill 1434 directs the Maryland Department of Health to create and maintain a centralized webpage with resources for caregivers. The bill aims to make it easier for caregivers to find information and support services.
According to AARP Maryland, nearly 1.2 million Marylanders are family caregivers. Sara Westrick, the group’s advocacy director, said the new laws are intended to streamline access to resources.
“Sometimes, there’s such a plethora of information in so many places, it can be hard to navigate,” Westrick said. “And so the aim with this bill is really to streamline and have a starting place for family caregivers to go.”
AARP estimates the total value of unpaid caregiver labor in Maryland at $12.5 billion. Nearly 40% of Maryland caregivers report financial strain or setbacks, including taking on debt, draining savings or struggling to afford basic needs.
Another measure, Senate Bill 809, authorizes a study on the feasibility of creating a direct stipend program for unpaid caregivers. The University of Maryland and the Department of Human Services will conduct the study, with a final report due in July 2028.
Westrick emphasized the importance of supporting caregivers. “The value of what family caregivers do in our state, it really can’t be overestimated,” she said. “There’s so much behind every family caregiver and the work that they do to help their loved ones.”
The bills reflect growing recognition of the critical role unpaid caregivers play in Maryland’s health care system. Family caregivers often provide essential support that allows loved ones to remain at home rather than in institutional settings, potentially reducing costs for the state while improving quality of life for care recipients.
For Southern Maryland families in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties, these measures could provide meaningful relief. Many caregivers in the region balance work, family responsibilities and caregiving duties for aging parents or children with special needs. The centralized resource page could help connect them with local services, respite care and financial assistance programs.
The study on a potential stipend program could lead to new financial support mechanisms in the future. Direct stipends have been implemented in some other states as a way to recognize the economic value of unpaid caregiving and help offset lost wages or increased expenses.
AARP Maryland has been a strong advocate for caregiver support legislation. The organization works to raise awareness of the challenges caregivers face and push for policies that provide relief and resources.
The new laws come as Maryland continues efforts to address caregiver burnout, financial strain and access to services. The centralized webpage is expected to serve as a one-stop resource hub, reducing the time and frustration caregivers often experience when trying to navigate multiple agencies and programs.
Caregivers in Southern Maryland can benefit from the expanded resources, particularly those caring for veterans, seniors or individuals with behavioral health needs. Local organizations and support groups may also see increased collaboration with state efforts.
The legislative session’s focus on caregivers reflects broader priorities around family support, health equity and economic stability. By investing in caregiver resources, Maryland aims to strengthen families and communities while potentially reducing long-term health care costs.
As the centralized webpage is developed and the stipend study progresses, caregivers are encouraged to stay informed through AARP Maryland and the Department of Health. Additional support programs and resources may become available as these initiatives move forward.
The bills represent a step toward recognizing and supporting the vital contributions of unpaid caregivers across Maryland.
