MD HB202

Establishes the Social Isolation and Loneliness Pilot Grant Program within the Maryland Department of Health to fund programs providing socioemotional support to vulnerable populations

Awards grants to five eligible entities for operating costs including venue fees, personnel costs, and licensing fees, with a maximum of $20,000 per grant

Prioritizes youth, senior, and rural populations in grant awards, in collaboration with the Department of Aging, Governor's Office for Children, and Department of Housing and Community Development

Requires a $100,000 appropriation in the FY 2028 budget and prohibits grant funds from being used for research/development programs or capital expenditures

Takes effect October 1, 2026 and automatically sunsets on March 31, 2030; requires the Department to submit an evaluation report to the Governor and General Assembly by December 1, 2029