New law expands early identification and referral for behavioral health conditions during pregnancy and the first year after childbirth. Annapolis, MD — Under the Perinatal Behavioral Health Conditions Act (HB 1118), which took effect on July 1, the Maryland Health Care Commission is studying the fiscal impact of requiring standardized perinatal behavioral health screenings statewide. While perinatal behavioral health screenings are already occurring and generally covered by insurance, beginning January 1, 2027, the law formally codifies coverage requirements, establishes standing referrals for follow-up behavioral health care, and requires the Maryland Department of Health to develop and implement perinatal behavioral health training for health care providers to improve care for pregnant and postpartum patients. "The Perinatal Behavioral Health Conditions Act advances our efforts to strengthen maternal mental health care by laying the groundwork for standardized screening, improving connections to behavioral health services, and better equipping providers to recognize and respond to perinatal mental health conditions. During National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, this legislation reminds us that mental health is maternal health, and every mother deserves access to compassionate, high-quality care."