MD HB1383

Expands the list of individualized needs courts must evaluate when determining if local departments made reasonable efforts for children in need of assistance, from four general categories (health, education, safety, preparation) to nine specific categories including health/medical/dental, education plans, emotional stability, physical placement, socialization, financial needs, and necessary documents like birth certificates and Social Security cards.

Requires local departments to ensure children age 18 and older are enrolled in health insurance that continues after emancipation and screened for public benefits eligibility before leaving care.

Mandates that local departments establish stable housing plans expected to remain available for at least 12 months after emancipation and engage older youth in education, training, or employment activities.

Requires courts to assess local department efforts made since the last adjudication rather than relying on findings from prior hearings.

Takes effect October 1, 2026.