UPPER MARLBORO, MD (June 06, 2025) – After a marathon of meetings, Maryland’s public health commission adopted at its June 5th meeting a draft slate of recommendations to release for public comment as required by the Commission’s enabling statute.

The recommendations were developed by the five workgroups and support staff based on assessment findings from workgroup meetings, invited speakers, and the report from the Commission’s academic partners.  Commissioners spent time reviewing and discussing the workgroup submissions during the course of the last five Commission meetings.  In total, more than 60 recommendations were advanced to the slate for public review.  Further refinement and consolidation will occur as feedback is received.

Multiple commissioners noted the positive step towards fulfilling the statutory requirement of improving Maryland’s state and local public health system.  While some commissioners noted the challenging times public health faces with funding and program cuts, others acknowledged the aspirational nature of this work – specifically highlighting its longer horizon for action.  

The Commission on Public Health will soon begin accepting open comments from members of the public, policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders. A formal announcement will be made as the 30 day public comment period launches.

The Commission meets again on Thursday, July 10, 2025, with Dr. Boris Lushniak as presiding co-chair. The session will be accessible online and recorded for public review at the Commission’s website with reminders and other important information also shared on social media through LinkedIn (@Maryland Commission on Public Health) and Instagram (@md.coph).