Rabid raccoon found in Harford County, health officials warn residents

UPDATE: A rabid groundhog has also been confirmed in the Monkton area. Original story below… JARRETTSVILLE, MD—A raccoon found in the Jarrettsville area has tested positive for rabies, according to a confirmation received by the Harford County Health Department on Tuesday. The animal was discovered in the 4000-block of Federal Hill Road. Health officials are urging residents to be cautious […]

Maryland Department of Health, Morgan State University launch new Environmental Health Specialist Apprenticeship Program

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Health and Morgan State University have launched a new apprenticeship program aimed at training the next generation of environmental health specialists in Maryland. The initiative, developed in partnership with the Maryland Professional Employees Council (MPEC), is designed for adult learners seeking careers in public health. The Environmental Health Specialist Apprenticeship Program, approved by the Maryland […]

Governor Moore signs executive order to advance environmental justice

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order over the weekend aimed at unifying the state’s approach to promoting environmental justice and addressing pollution burdens in historically underserved communities. The “Valuing Opportunity, Inclusion, and Community Equity” (VOICE) order is designed to foster a “whole-of-government” strategy, emphasizing meaningful engagement with communities disproportionately affected by environmental pollution. “Every Marylander deserves access […]

Governor Moore announces streamlined benefits access for Marylanders through Maryland Benefits One Application

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Marylanders seeking vital state benefits can now apply for multiple programs through a single, mobile-friendly online application, Governor Wes Moore announced this week. The new “Maryland Benefits One Application” aims to streamline access to critical services like Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, WIC, and energy assistance. “Today, we take a big step forward in our work to ensure that Marylanders can […]

Governor Moore declares State of Preparedness as extreme heat grips Maryland

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore on Monday declared a State of Preparedness for Maryland ahead of a hazardous heat wave expected to bring dangerously high temperatures across much of the state. The declaration aims to enhance government coordination and ensure the state is ready to respond swiftly to potential heat-related hazards. The National Weather Service forecasts extreme heat from Monday through […]

Maryland health officials issue heat safety warning after first fatality

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Health is urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses as summer temperatures rise, following the state’s first heat-related death of the year. State health officials emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of overheating and knowing how to stay cool, especially for vulnerable populations. “Making sure you know the signs and symptoms […]

Baltimore County Public Library, Department of Health partner on free gun lock distribution

TOWSON, MD—June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month and to raise awareness and increase safety for all Baltimore County residents, free gun safety locks will be available through June at all public library branches in Baltimore County*. The program is led by the Baltimore County Department of Health’s Bureau of Behavioral Health (BBH) in partnership with the Baltimore County Public […]

Parkville trio plead guilty to Medicaid fraud

BALTIMORE, MD—Three individuals have admitted to defrauding Maryland Medicaid of over $3.6 million through two behavioral health companies. The guilty pleas were announced on Monday by Attorney General Anthony G. Brown. On February 25, 2025, Tasha S. Saunders, 44, of Parkville, admitted to defrauding the program on two counts. Saunders, who was previously convicted and served time for a similar […]