MD SB741

Requires a certificate of need before any health care facility reduces psychiatric bed capacity by 5 or more beds, or before closing a facility results in a decrease of 5 or more psychiatric beds statewide

Establishes the Workgroup on Forensic Mental Health Treatment, co-chaired by the Secretary of Health and Chief Justice, to develop a standardized data collection form for incompetency-to-stand-trial proceedings by October 1, 2026

Creates the Forensic Mental Health Treatment Fund as a special, nonlapsing fund to increase licensed psychiatric beds in Maryland, funded by court fines and monetary penalties imposed when the Health Department fails to timely admit defendants to designated facilities

Requires the Workgroup to submit annual reports beginning January 1, 2027, on psychiatric bed needs, outpatient competency restoration options, and funding recommendations

Takes effect October 1, 2025