MD SB69

Maryland Department of Health must study the feasibility of installing and maintaining landline telephone systems in assisted living facilities, psychiatric facilities, and nursing homes

Study must examine current telephone accessibility, evaluate costs for individual room or communal telephones (labor, equipment, installation, maintenance), and assess benefits for residents including social interaction and emergency preparedness

Department must identify barriers to implementation such as infrastructure limitations and regulatory requirements, as well as circumstances where resident telephone access may need limitation for safety or medical reasons

Study requires consultation with facility representatives, advocacy organizations for seniors and individuals with disabilities or mental health conditions, and residents and families

Report with findings and recommendations due to Senate Finance Committee and House Health and Government Operations Committee by September 30, 2026; act takes effect October 1, 2025