MD SB385

Secretary of Health must issue recommendations for immunizations, screenings, and preventive services for infants, children, and adults based on guidance from medical organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, CDC, FDA, and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

Pharmacists may administer vaccinations recommended by the Secretary of Health to individuals age 7 and older, in addition to CDC-recommended and FDA-approved vaccines already permitted under existing law.

Health insurers must cover immunizations, screenings, and preventive services without cost-sharing (no copays, coinsurance, or deductibles) based on the Secretary of Health's recommendations, with coverage required for plan years beginning 3 months after recommendations are issued.

Repeals obsolete pertussis vaccine provisions and removes references tying vaccination authority and insurance coverage to federal guidance frozen at December 31, 2024, replacing them with state-level Secretary of Health recommendations.

Takes effect July 1, 2026, with insurance provisions applying to policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2027.