DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

FUNCTIONS

The Department of Human Services serves families and individuals who, due to financial hardship, disability, age, chronic disease, or any other cause, need help in obtaining the basic necessities of food, and shelter.

Children in particular are the concern of the Department's day care, foster care, adoption, and protective services that also extend to vulnerable adults. The Department directs State programs for homeless persons, refugees, migrant workers, victims of crime, and women who are displaced, battered, or assaulted. It also administers federally funded programs, such as Family Investment, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (known as SNAP, formerly Food Stamps), and Medical Assistance (Medicaid) (Code Human Services Article, secs. 2-101 through 6-708).

OFFICE OF SECRETARY

Appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent, the Secretary of Human Services directs the Department (Code Human Services Article, secs. 2-202, 2-203).

The Secretary of Human Services is a member of the Governor's Executive Council, the Children's Cabinet, the Advisory Council to the Children's Cabinet, the School Safety Subcabinet Advisory Board, and the MD THINK Committee. The Secretary also chairs the Work Group on Low-Income Utility Assistance, and the Two-Generation Family Economic Security Commission, and serves as Co-Vice-Chair of the Maryland Food System Resiliency Council.

As a member, the Secretary serves on the Interagency Committee on Aging Services; the Advisory Stakeholder Group on Autism-Related Needs; the Behavioral Health Advisory Council; the Commission on Behavioral Health Care Treatment and Access; the State Child Fatality Review Team; the Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports; the Maryland Cybersecurity Coordinating Council; the Interagency Disabilities Board; the Governor's Family Violence Council; the Maryland Efficient Grant Application Council; the Governor's Commission on Hispanic Affairs; the Interagency Council on Homelessness; the State Coordinating Committee for Human Services Transportation; the Maryland Council on Innovation and Impact; the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices; the Law Enforcement Coordinating Council; the Governor's Commission to Study Mental and Behavioral Health in Maryland; the Council on Open Data; the Procurement Improvement Council; the Maryland Sexual Assault Evidence Kit Policy and Funding Committee; the Interdepartmental Advisory Committee on Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs; Workgroup on Social Worker Requirements for Licensure; the Interagency Committee on Specialized Transportation; the Commission on Trauma-Informed Care; the Maryland Veterans Trust; the State Board of Victim Services; and the Governor's Workforce Development Board.

Reporting to the Secretary are six offices: Budget and Finance; Communications; Employment and Program Equity; Government Affairs; Inspector General; and Technology for Human Services. Also within the Office of Secretary are the Maryland Total Human-Services Information Network, the Foster Parent Ombudsman and the Foster Care Youth Ombudsman.

Appointed by the Secretary of Human Services with the approval of the Governor, two deputy secretaries oversee: Operations, and Programs (Code Human Services Article, sec. 2-204).

The Department is aided by the State Council on Child Abuse and Neglect, the State Citizens Review Board for Children, the Commission on Trauma-Informed Care; the Two-Generation Family Economic Security Commission, and the Maryland Commission for Women.

On July 3, 2024, the Department moved from 311 West Saratoga Street to 25 South Charles Street in Baltimore.

CHIEF OF STAFF

OFFICE OF LEGAL SERVICES
The Office of Legal Services, then known as Judicare, was created in 1971. Formerly under the Community Services Administration, the Office transferred to the Office of Secretary in May 2008. From November 2009 to December 2013, the Office reported to the Deputy Secretary for Operations. From December 2013 to November 2015, the Office reported to the Deputy Secretary for Programs. Since November 2015, the Office again reports to the Deputy Secretary for Operations.

Court-appointed attorneys are paid by the Office of Legal Services to represent indigent adults in Adult Protective Services proceedings, and children in Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) and Termination of Parental Rights cases. To provide these services, the Office contracts with legal firms, monitors attorney performance, and oversees the interaction between client and attorney. The Office also administers the Court-Appointed Attorney Program. The Program compensates attorneys who are appointed under special circumstances to individual cases.

STATE COUNCIL ON CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT
In 1986, the State Council on Child Abuse and Neglect originated as the Governor's Council on Child Abuse and Neglect within the Office for Children and Youth, which reformed as the Office for Children, Youth, and Families in 1990 (Executive Order 01.01.1986.07). The Council received its present name in July 1999 (Chapters 355 & 356, Acts of 1999).

The Council functioned under the Office of the Lieutenant Governor from 1997 to 2003. In July 2003, it returned to the Office for Children, Youth, and Families, which became the Governor's Office for Children in 2005. In February 2006, the Council transferred to the Department of Human Resources by agreement between the Secretary of Human Resources and the Executive Director of the Governor's Office for Children. In October 2012, the transfer was formalized by statute (Chapter 116, Acts of 2012).

Meeting quarterly, the Council advises the Governor on programs to prevent, detect, and treat child abuse and neglect. In furtherance of its duties, the Council examines the policies and procedures of State and local agencies to evaluate the extent to which these agencies are effectively discharging their child protection responsibilities.

Fifteen of the Council's twenty-three members are appointed by the Governor to three-year terms. The Senate President and the House Speaker each appoint one member, as do the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland, the Secretary of Health, the Secretary of Human Services, the Secretary of Juvenile Services, and the State Superintendent of Education. In addition, a representative of the Maryland State's Attorneys' Association serves on the Council. The Governor names the Chair (Code Family Law Article, secs. 5-7A-01 through 5-7A-09).

The Council is assisted by the Children's Justice Act Committee.

CHILDREN'S JUSTICE ACT COMMITTEE
In October 2012, the Children's Justice Act Committee transferred to the Department of Human Resources from the Governor's Office of Crime Control and Prevention (Chapter 116, Acts of 2012).

As required by the federal Children's Justice Act (P.L. 100-294), the Committee reviews and evaluates how Maryland agencies handle child abuse and neglect cases. To improve response and intervention systemwide, the Committee makes recommendations for State policy and training.

Committee members are appointed by the State Council on Child Abuse and Neglect (Code Family Law Article, sec. 5-7A-05).

STATE CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD FOR CHILDREN
1100 Eastern Blvd., Essex, MD 21221

The State Citizens Review Board for Children was formed by the General Assembly in 1978 as the Maryland Citizen Board for Review of Foster Care for Children (Chapter 980, Acts of 1978). It was renamed in July 1999 (Chapter 356, Acts of 1999).

The State Board reviews and coordinates the work of local citizen review boards and promulgates policies and procedures relating to their functions. It also recommends foster care policies and procedures to the General Assembly (Code Family Law Article, secs. 5-535 through 5-547).

In each county and Baltimore City, local citizen review boards for children review cases of children in foster care to evaluate what progress has been made towards their permanent placement. Cases are reviewed in accordance with priorities established by the local department of social services and the State Board and contained in a memorandum of agreement. For each child reviewed, a recommendation is sent to the local department of social services and the local juvenile court. With concurrence of the Social Services Administration, the State Board may establish categories of foster children for whom a satisfactory permanent arrangement has been made and who may be exempt from local review. Quarterly, the State Board tabulates and analyzes all local case reviews completed and submits its findings to the Department of Human Services (Chapter 630, Acts of 2009).

Members of local citizen review boards for children are appointed by the Governor to four-year terms. Each local board has seven members.

The eleven members of the State Citizens Review Board for Children represent the jurisdictions encompassed by judicial circuits. In Judicial Circuits nos. 1-7, each local review board elects a member to the State Board. From Baltimore (Judicial Circuit no. 8), local review boards choose three State Board members. The Governor also appoints one member from the executive staff. Members serve two-year terms concurrent with their service on the local review board.

The State Board's Administrator is appointed by the State Board with the approval of the Secretary of Human Services.

COMMISSION ON TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE
In July 2021, the General Assembly authorized the Commission on Trauma-Informed Care as an independent unit functioning within the Department of Human Services (Chapter 723, Acts of 2021).

The Commission coordinates a statewide initiative to prioritize State services for children, youth, families, and older adults affected by trauma.

Twenty-nine members constitute the Commission. Of these, the Governor appoints sixteen members; the Senate President names two, the House Speaker designates two, and nine serve ex officio. The Governor names the Chair (Code Human Services Article, secs. 8–1301 through 8–1310).

TWO-GENERATION FAMILY ECONOMIC SECURITY COMMISSION
In March 2017, the Two-Generation Family Economic Security Commission was formed first by the Governor, and its authorization ended December 31, 2018 (Executive Order 01.01.2017.03). In October 2020, the Two-Generation Family Economic Security Commission was re-established by the General Assembly (Chapter 460, Acts of 2020).

To mitigate intergenerational poverty, the Commission investigates policy challenges and opportunities. Further, the Commission identifies State services that could be used to support the multigenerational approach, as well as program and service gaps between federal, State and local programs. Best practices already followed on federal, State and local levels are identified and tested, and the Commission makes recommendations concerning their use. From sources with first-hand knowledge and experience working with multigenerational poverty, such as welfare advocacy organizations and community action partnerships, the Commission seeks guidance and comment.

Annually, the Commission reports its recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly (Code Human Services Article, sec. 2-604).

MARYLAND COMMISSION FOR WOMEN
311 West Saratoga St., Room 272, Baltimore, MD 21201

In 1965, the Maryland Commission for Women started as the Governor's Commission on the Status of Women. To examine pressing social problems and foster an understanding of issues affecting women, the Commission was reactivated in 1968 as the Maryland Commission on the Status of Women. The Governor directed the Commission to review the previous Commission's recommendations on education, employment, and community and civic participation, and to implement those most pertinent. The Commission also helped State and local organizations identify problems and improve opportunities for women in a variety of fields. In 1971, the General Assembly made the Commission part of the Department of Human Resources (Chapter 57, Acts of 1971). The Commission adopted its present name in 1976 (Chapter 119, Acts of 1976). Formerly under the Community Services Administration, the Commission moved to the Office of the Secretary in August 2002.

The Commission studies and publishes research on the status of women in Maryland. It recommends methods of overcoming discrimination, directs attention to critical problems confronting women, and advises the executive and legislative branches of government on issues concerning women. Each year, the Commission also monitors legislation proposed to the General Assembly, and testifies or submits testimony on relevant bills.

Through the Maryland Women's Hall of Fame, the Commission recognizes the accomplishments of women. Each year, it inducts to the Hall five women who made significant and lasting contributions to the history and culture of the State. Annually, the Commission also sponsors the Maryland Young Women Leaders Awards to recognize five high school students with records of outstanding community service, leadership, and academic excellence.

With the State Department of Education, the Commission established in Baltimore the Maryland Women's Heritage Center, a museum and resource center for learning about women's contributions throughout Maryland history.

Since June 2009, the Governor has appointed the Commission's twenty-five members. All serve four-year terms. The Commission elects the Chair and Vice-Chair (Chapter 9, Acts of 2006; Chapter 35, Acts of 2009; Code Human Services Article, secs. 2-401 through 2-408).

OFFICE OF BUDGET & FINANCE
Organized in 1989, the Office of Budget and Finance manages and controls the fiscal systems of the Department. These systems assure that the Department operates within its budget and meets mandates of federal and State government.

CHIEF OF STAFF

OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
Audits of local departments of social services, as well as Department programs and activities, are conducted by the Office of Inspector General. The Office also investigates all reports of alleged fraud and abuse, either by a recipient, providor, vendor, or employee.

DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS

To provide a safe, efficient, and comfortable work environment for Department employees, the Division oversees facility planning, architectural design, space allocation, lease management, workspace planning and installation, building alteration and renovation, and building operations. The Division also operates a warehouse, supply office, mailroom, and graphics media center. Additional responsibilities include risk management, emergency response, and fleet operations.

The Division oversees two offices: Emergency Operations, and Support Operations.

OFFICE OF EMERGENCY OPERATIONS
Three units fall under the Office of Emergency Operations: Asset Management, Records Management, and Risk Management.

RECORDS MANAGEMENT
Since October 1, 2017, the Department of Human Services has had a program for the continual, economical and efficient management of its records. The Department's Records Officer develops and oversees the program, and serves as liaison to the Records Management Division of the Department of General Services, and to the State Archives (Chapter 539, Acts of 2017; Code State Government Article, secs. 10-608 through 10-611).

OFFICE OF LICENSING & MONITORING
In January 2006, the Office of Licensing and Monitoring was established under Operations by the Secretary of Human Services. In 2008, the Office transferred to the Office of Secretary, and in July 2015, back to Operations.

Approximately 200 privately-run group homes for troubled youths are licensed and monitored by the Office. Additionally, the Office reviews applications for new group homes and coordinates group home oversight with the Department of Health and the Department of Juvenile Services. Approximately 100 licensed programs for foster care treatment also are overseen by the Office.

OPERATIONS

OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY FOR HUMAN SERVICES

The Office of Technology for Human Services reviews and approves the Department's technology plans, programs, projects, budgets, staff, and purchasing. It manages and directs the Department's information systems, including computer applications and systems, and computer and communication equipment.

For Department facilities throughout the State, the Office administers computer applications, systems, and peripheral equipment, as well as computer and communication equipment, telephone systems and equipment, ancillary facility and support equipment, and consumables and supplies. In addition, the Office advises the Secretary of Human Services on information technology issues.

Under the Office of Technology for Human Services are the Electronic Benefits Transfer System, and Technical Services.

ELECTRONIC BENEFITS TRANSFER SYSTEM
The Electronic Benefits Transfer System began as a pilot project in 1989 and was implemented statewide in 1993. Through this system, eligible individuals are issued a plastic debit card to access electronically cash and supplemental nutrition (formerly food stamps) on a monthly basis. The card replaces paper food-stamp coupons and cash benefit checks. The card also may be used to pay gas and electric bills, public housing rent, and group home expenses.

TECHNICAL SERVICES
Technical Services oversees Security Services.

MARYLAND TOTAL HUMAN-SERVICES INFORMATION NETWORK (MD THINK)

MD THINK is a cloud-based data repository that uses a scalable, pay-as-you-go, cloud-based platform. It is designed to break down data barriers between State agencies and provide integrated access to programs administered by the Department of Human Services and several agencies, including the Maryland Department of Health, the Department of Juvenile Services, and the Maryland Department of Labor.

With federal funding in 2017, Phase one of MD THINK will streamline service delivery for the most vulnerable Marylanders, including children in foster care, disconnected youth, and families in need. For the first time, caseworkers will be provided tablet devices, enabling them to provide services in the field as opposed to having to return to a central location to input data, saving time and resources.

PROGRAMS

Major programs of the Department of Human Services are administered by Programs. In conjunction with local departments of social services, these programs are overseen by the Deputy Secretary for Programs. Originally, they were carried out by four administrations: Child Care; Community Services; Family Investment; and Social Services. A fifth administration - Child-Support Enforcement - transferred to Programs in 2003. In July 2005, the Child Care Administration was renamed the Office of Child Care and moved to the Division of Early Childhood Development in the State Department of Education (Chapter 585, Acts of 2005).

In April 2008, the Community Services Administration was disbanded and its functions dispersed to other agencies. In June 2008, the Social Services Administration moved directly under the Office of Secretary, and in 2015, was placed under Programs.

Programs is responsible for three administrations: Child Support, Family Investment, and Social Services. Since March 2007, Programs also has overseen local departments of social services.

CHILD SUPPORT ADMINISTRATION

Formerly, enforcement of court-ordered child support was the duty of the Division of Parole and Probation in the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. Then, from 1979 to 1984, the Income Maintenance Administration under the Department of Human Resources became the public agency through which support payments were channeled. In 1984, the Child-Support Enforcement Administration formed in the Department of Human Resources to provide child-support services for families (Chapter 296, Acts of 1984; Code Human Services Article, sec. 2-301). Formerly under Operations, the Administration transferred to Programs in 2003. In July 2017, the Administration was renamed the Child Support Administration under the Department of Human Services (Chapter 205, Acts of 2017).

The Child Support Administration runs the statewide child support program and, in doing so, provides services to both the noncustodial and custodial parents. Through local departments of social services, courts, State's Attorneys' offices, and other agencies, the Administration locates absent parents; determines paternity; establishes, reviews, modifies, and enforces child support orders; and collects and distributes support payments (Code Family Law Article, secs. 10-106 through 10-117). Recipients of Non-Public Assistance Medical Assistance receive services at no charge and are required to cooperate with the Administration in order to secure support. Families not receiving medical or cash benefits from the Department pay a $25 fee when they apply for child support services. Collections made on behalf of such families are paid in full to the family.

Oversight of State programs is provided by the federal Office of Child Support Enforcement, which maintains the Federal Case Registry, a federal database that consolidates state child support data. The federal Office uses the Registry to help state offices find delinquent parents.

At the State level, the Child Support Enforcement System (CSES) is used to record child support case information, including enforcement efforts; and to account for the collection and subsequent distribution of support payments.

Appointed by the Secretary of Human Services, the Executive Director heads the Administration.

The Administration works through two agencies: Operations; and Programs. It also is assisted by Program Development.

PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

OPERATIONS

PROGRAMS

Since February 2018, Programs oversees child support offices for five local jurisdictions: Baltimore City and Anne Arundel, Baltimore County, and Montgomery and Prince George's counties. Programs also directs Special Projects, Grants Implementation/Monitoring, and Baltimore City Programs.

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT
On July 1, 2002, under the Child-Support Enforcement Administration, State government assumed responsibility for the Anne Arundel County Office of Child-Support Enforcement (Code Family Law Article, sec. 10-117). Under the Child Support Administration, the Office was renamed the Anne Arundel County Office of Child Support in July 2017.

BALTIMORE CITY OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT
The Baltimore City Office of Child Support was initiated as the Bureau of Support Enforcement under the Baltimore City Department of Social Services. Responsibility for the City Bureau was assumed by State government on October 1, 1990, when the Bureau transferred to the Child-Support Enforcement Administration. The Bureau in 1993 was renamed the Baltimore City Office of Child-Support Enforcement. Under the Child Support Administration, that office was reformed as the Baltimore City Office of Child Support in July 2017.

In 1995, under the Child Support Enforcement Privatization Pilot Program, administration of the Baltimore City Office of Child-Support Enforcement was privatized (Chapter 491, Acts of 1995). Authorization for the Program continued until October 31, 2002 (Code Family Law Article, sec. 10-119.1). Since 2002, under the Child-Support Enforcement Administration, State government resumed administration of the Office (Code Family Law Article, sec. 10-117).

BALTIMORE COUNTY OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT
On July 1, 1999, under the Child-Support Enforcement Administration, State government assumed responsibility for the Baltimore County Office of Child-Support Enforcement (Code Family Law Article, sec. 10-117). Under the Child Support Administration, the Office was renamed the Baltimore County Office of Child Support in July 2017.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT
The Montgomery County Office of Child Support started as the Family Service Division under the Montgomery County Circuit Court. Later, responsibility for its operation transferred to State Government under the Administrative Office of the Courts. Since October 1996, the Office has been administered by the Child-Support Enforcement Administration (Code Family Law Article, sec. 10-117). Under the Child Support Administration, the Office was renamed the Montgomery County Office of Child Support in July 2017.

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT
The Prince George's County Office of Child Support Enforcement has been administered by State Government under the Child-Support Enforcement Administration since July 1, 2002 (Code Family Law Article, sec. 10-117). Under the Child Support Administration, the Office was renamed the Prince George's County Office of Child Support in July 2017.

SPECIAL PROJECTS, GRANTS IMPLEMENTATION/MONITORING, & BALTIMORE CITY PROGRAMS
Maryland Fatherhood Initiatives have been part of Special Projects since February 2018.

Maryland Fatherhood Initiatives. This program helps fathers become involved with raising their children. It works through five programs: Absent Parent; Access and Visitation; Maryland Fatherhood Initiative Grant; Partners for Fragile Families; and Young Father Responsible Fathers.

FAMILY INVESTMENT ADMINISTRATION

Functions of the Family Investment Administration began when the General Assembly formed the Board of State Aid and Charities (Chapter 679, Acts of 1900), which became the State Department of Public Welfare in 1939 (Chapter 99, Acts of 1939). That department reformed as the Department of Social Services in 1968 (Chapter 702, Acts of 1968). Responsibilities for public assistance devolved to the Social Services Administration in 1970. By 1980, those duties were assigned to the Income Maintenance Administration first by Executive Order and then by law (Chapter 26, Acts of 1980). The Administration reformed as the Family Investment Administration in 1996 (Chapter 351, Acts of 1996).

While administered by the local departments of social services, all public assistance programs in the State are coordinated and supervised by the Family Investment Administration (Code Human Services Article, secs. 5-101 through 5-608). These programs include the Energy Assistance Program, the Family Investment Program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly Food Stamps), and the Temporary Cash Assistance Program. The Administration also coordinates programs for public assistance to adults, emergency assistance, and burial assistance.

Family Investment Program. Through the Family Investment Program, eligible families may receive Temporary Cash Assistance or a one-time welfare avoidance grant.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. In accord with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Administration directs the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly Food Stamps). Eligible households in this program access their food benefits electronically through a debit card known as an Independence Card. Monthly, their benefit amount is transferred to their card, which is used to purchase food, and plants and seeds for growing food. Nonfood items cannot be purchased with the card.

Under an agreement with the Maryland Department of Health, the Administration also certifies eligible low-income families for Maryland's Children Health Insurance Program, the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid), and the Maryland Pharmacy Assistance Program.

For local departments of social services, the Family Investment Administration sets policy to be followed in determining eligibility for financial assistance, the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid), and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. In Baltimore City and in each county, the local director of social services administers public assistance programs subject to the supervision, direction, and control of the Family Investment Administration.

With the Governor's approval, the Executive Director of Family Investment is appointed by the Secretary of Human Services (Code Human Services Article, sec. 5-203).

The Administration oversees five offices: Administration, Cash Programs, Operations, Programs, and Workforce Development.

OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATION
For the Family Investment Administration, the Office of Administration oversaw four units: Contracts, Medical Assistance Operations, Office Automation, and Procurement and Budget. It was renamed the Bureau of Administration in 2015, and reverted to its former name in January 2019.

As of January 2020, the Office is responsible for budget and fiscal services, contracts administration, contracts and special projects, and support services.

OFFICE OF CASH PROGRAMS
In January 2020, the Office of Cash Programs was created.

In February 2021, functions of the Office of Workforce Development were transferred to the Office of Cash Programs

The Office of Workforce Development originated from two agencies: the Bureau of Continuous Improvement, and the original Bureau of Work Programs. The Bureau of Continuous Improvement had started as the Office of Field Operations and reorganized as the Office of Quality Assurance in 1992, and the Bureau of Continuous Improvement in 1998. In October 2009, the Bureau of Continuous Improvement and the Bureau of Work Programs merged to form the Bureau of Local Operations. In June 2011, the Bureau became the Bureau of Employment Operations and Support, and in May 2012, the Bureau of Work Programs. In May 2014, the Bureau of Work Programs was reformed as the Bureau of Workforce Development and transferred to the office of the Executive Director, Family Investment Administration. The Bureau again moved to the Office of Special Projects in January 2015, and to the Office of Programs in June 2015. In January 2019, it moved to the Office of Operations as the Office of Workforce Development.

To ensure compliance with State and federal regulations for programs of the Family Investment Administration, local departments of social services formerly monitored by the Office of Workforce Development now are monitored by the Office of Cash Programs. The Office also serves as a liaison between the local departments and State agencies. Overseen by the Office are the corrective actions for Family Investment programs.

Some adults receiving benefits through the Family Investment Administration must comply with work activity requirements. Through the Work Opportunities Management Information System (WOMIS), the Office of Cash programs analyzes the employment and work training functions of the Administration. This analysis meets federal reporting requirements for the State's Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamps Program. The System captures customer demographics and work history, as well as records activities within work programs, such as referrals, attendance, and outcomes. Reports and data generated by the System are used by the Office to determine compliance of the Administration and local offices with federal and State work regulations governing welfare reform.

OFFICE OF OPERATIONS

Under the Office are the Office of Local Operations, and three bureaus: Audit Compliance and Reporting; Quality Control; and Systems Modernization and Information Analysis.

BUREAU OF QUALITY CONTROL
Formerly the Bureau of Quality Control, the Bureau was renamed the Bureau of Quality Assurance in June 2011. It assumed its present name later.

Quality assurance reviews are conducted by the Bureau. Mandated by State and federal law, reviewers monitor the Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) Program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and the Medical Assistance Program.

BUREAU OF SYSTEMS MODERNIZATION & INFORMATION ANALYSIS
Formerly under the Office of Programs, the Bureau of Systems Development and Management transferred to the Office of Operations. In January 2019, that bureau merged with the Bureau of Information Analysis to form the Bureau of Systems Modernization and Information Analysis.

The Bureau designs, tests, implements, maintains, and controls those components of the Client's Automated Resource and Eligibility System (CARES) used by the Family Investment Administration. Systems support is provided by the Bureau to all System users, including local departments of social services.

OFFICE OF PROGRAMS

Under the Office of Programs are the Bureau of Special Grants and six offices: Home Energy Programs; the Maryland Office for Refugees and Asylees; Long-Term Care; Medical Assistance; Policy; and Training.

EMERGENCY FOOD PROGRAMS AND SPECIAL PROJECTS
In April 2008, the Office of Grants Management was established under the Deputy Secretary for Programs. From the Community Services Administration, it was assigned programs from the former Office of Community Initiatives, the Office of Transitional Services, and the Office of Victim Services. In July 2012, the Office was renamed the Bureau of Grants Management, and transferred to the Family Investment Administration. It became the Bureau of Special Grants in May 2014 and Emergency Food Programs and Food Special Projects by April 2024.

The unit is responsible for the Maryland Emergency Food Assistance Program, the Emergency Food Assistance Program, and the Statewide Nutrition Assistance Equipment Program.

Displaced Homemakers Program. Started as a model project in 1976, this program became State funded in 1979 (Chapter 339, Acts of 1979). The Program helps homemakers who are displaced due to the death or disability of, or divorce, separation, or abandonment by a family member upon whom they depended for income. Community organizations help them become self-sufficient through counseling, training, and employment assistance (Code Family Law Article, secs. 4-601, 4-602).

EMERGENCY FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Emergency Food Assistance began in March 1983 under federal law as the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program (P.L. 98-8). The Program formalized the distribution of surplus dairy commodities begun in January 1982. Originally administered by the Food Distribution Section of the State Department of Education, the Program moved to the Department of Human Resources in January 1988. The Program became the Emergency Food Assistance Program in 1990 (federal Food & Agricultural Resources Act of 1990). In 1996, the Program for administrative purposes was placed under Homeless Services.

Emergency Food Assistance Program. This is a federal program. It distributes food from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to needy people in situations of emergency and distress. Food from surplus federal commodity inventories is delivered quarterly to local emergency organizations and food pantries for distribution to individuals. Eligibility for assistance is based on income and household size, or prior certification in any of the following programs: Maryland Energy Assistance; Food Stamps; Medical Assistance (Medicaid); or Public Assistance.

Maryland Emergency Food Program. This State program started July 1, 1998.

Statewide Nutrition Assistance Program. Administered by Emergency Food Assistance, this State program funds the purchase of capital equipment by emergency food pantries and soup kitchens.

HOMELESSNESS PROGRAMS
Oversight of certain homelessness programs was assigned to the Office of Grants Management in April 2008. The Office reformed as a bureau in July 2012 under the Family Investment Administration. Since May 2014, the Bureau of Special Grants has been responsible for the Emergency and Transitional Housing and Services Program, the Homelessness Prevention Program, and the Housing Counselor Program.

OFFICE OF HOME ENERGY PROGRAMS
In July 2000, the Office of Home Energy Programs was created within the Community Services Administration by the General Assembly. In April 2008, the Office transferred to the Family Investment Administration (Chapter 116, Acts of 2008). Formerly under the Office of Programs, Home Energy Programs moved to the Office of Community Services in July 2016, and back to the Office of Programs in January 2019.

The Office of Home Energy Programs oversees the Electric Universal Service Program and the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (Code Human Services Article, secs. 6-301 through 6-308). The Office also is charged with developing and implementing an emergency energy-crisis intervention program to prevent those with low incomes from experiencing danger to health or survival as a result of an energy emergency.

Electric Universal Service Program. This program was instigated following passage of the 1999 restructuring Electric Competition Law, and the Electric Customer Choice and Competition Act of 1999, which provided funds for an ongoing and non-lapsing universal service program. A universal service program helps low-income customers maintain electric service, and provides customer bill assistance and payment programs, termination of service protection, and policies and services that help low-income customers reduce or manage energy consumption in a cost-effective manner.

In July 2000, when collection of universal service funds from customers started, the Office of Home Energy Programs under the Department of Human Resources (now Department of Human Services ) began operating the Electric Universal Service Program made up of three parts: bill payment assistance, arrearage retirement payments, and weatherization. Low-income households are aided by the Program to pay current and overdue electric bills. To reduce future electric bills, the Program also helps with energy efficiency measures.

Maryland Energy Assistance Program. In 1977, the Program began as a pilot program. Reformed as the Energy Crisis Intervention Program in 1978, it adopted its present name in 1980. In July 2000, it was placed under the Office of Home Energy Programs.

The Maryland Energy Assistance Program provides fuel oil, electricity, gas (natural and propane), wood, and coal to eligible low-income people across the State (Code Human Services Article, secs. 6-301 through 6-308). Eligibility for assistance is based on household size, income, fuel type, and geographic location. Those with the greatest need receive the highest level of assistance. Benefits reflect a fixed portion of average fuel consumption based on fuel type. They range from 32 to 85 percent of average consumption. Heating assistance is offered to eligible tenants and homeowners. Maryland is the first state to offer this aid to shelters for battered spouses and the homeless. The Program subcontracts with twenty local agencies (departments of social services, governments, community action agencies) and 450 energy suppliers to provide this assistance.

Emergency Energy Assistance also is offered by the Program to householders certified eligible for regular energy assistance benefits. Provided on a one-time-only basis, this assistance is for fuel deliveries, utility cut-offs, emergency repairs, blankets, emergency space heaters, or emergency shelter. It may not exceed $180. Benefits provided are paid directly to energy vendors selected by the eligible household. Under contract with the State, vendors deliver fuel to a household until the family's benefit amount is exhausted.

In October 2019, the Office of Home Energy Programs also became responsible for the Critical Medical Needs Program (Chapters 282 & 283, Acts of 2019; Code Human Services Article, sec. 5-5A-08). This program assists critical medically vulnerable persons and their households in the energy assistance application process. Further, it works with electrical and gas companies to keep critical medically vulnerable persons from having their energy service stopped or to have that service restored expeditiously.

OFFICE OF CUSTOMER SERVICE PERFORMANCE & POLICY COMPLIANCE
The Office of Customer Service Performance and Policy Compliance began as the Bureau of Research and Legislation. Under the Office of Programs, it reformed as the Bureau of Research and Evaluation in July 2004, and reverted to its former name in November 2009. In March 2011, the Bureau of Policy and Training merged with the Bureau of Research and Legislation to form the Bureau of Policy, Research, and Training. In January 2019, it was renamed Office of Policy and by April 2024, it had become the Office of Customer Service Performance and Policy Compliance.

To determine their effect on programs operated or supported by the Family Investment Administration, the Office of Customer Service Performance and Policy Compliance reviews federal and State legislation. The Office also assesses the impact of legislation on the Administration's budget; develops the Department's position on legislation; and testifies before legislative and Congressional committees. In addition, the Office drafts regulations necessary to implement legislation; writes policy manuals and instructional materials for local departments of social services; and trains case managers and supervisors to implement new policies.

The Office monitors federal and State legislation, and serves as liaison to the General Assembly and the Joint Committee on Welfare Reform. To evaluate and summarize welfare reform in Maryland, the Office collects data and issues monthly reports. Moreover, the Office supervises research projects for the Family Investment Administration, both in-house and contractual. This includes managing contracts with State universities where studies on welfare reform affect initiatives in the field.

MARYLAND OFFICE FOR REFUGEES & ASYLEES
In 1980, the Department of Human Resources established the Maryland Office for New Americans as the Maryland Office of Refugee Affairs. In 1994, the Office reorganized as the Maryland Office for New Americans (Executive Order 01.01.1994.26). It transferred from the Community Services Administration to the Family Investment Administration in April 2008. As the Maryland Office for Refugees and Asylees, the Office was restructured in December 2008 to administer federally-funded refugee programs. Formerly under the Office of Special Projects, it moved to the Office of Programs in July 2016.

The Maryland Office for Refugees and Asylees helps refugees residing in Maryland to become economically and socially self-sufficient. It provides employment services, English language and vocational training, cultural orientation, and other services.

Citizenship Promotion Program. The Office also administers the Citizenship Promotion Program authorized by the General Assembly in 1995 (Chapter 163, Acts of 1995). The Program encourages and assists eligible Maryland residents to become naturalized citizens of the United States and participate in civic life (Code Human Services Article, secs. 6-702 through 6-708).

SOCIAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

Anne Arundel County Department of Social Services, Westgate Building, 80 West St., Annapolis, Maryland, May 2014. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

Formerly, the Social Services Administration supervised all public assistance programs in Maryland. These responsibilities, however, transferred in 1980 to the Income Maintenance Administration (now Family Investment Administration) (Chapter 26, Acts of 1980).

Wicomico County Department of Social Services, W. Paul Martin District Court/Multi-Service Center, 201 Baptist St., Salisbury, Maryland, June 2018. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

Each county department of social services has a nine-member board of social services. Board members are appointed to three-year terms by the local governing authority. One member serves ex officio. In Baltimore City, the board is called the social services commission. The Mayor appoints its members to six-year terms, and two members serve ex officio (Code Human Services Article, secs. 3-101 through 3-602).

Grantsville Outreach Center (Garrett County Dept. of Social Services & Health Dept.), Grantsville, Maryland, October 2014. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

The Social Services Administration is organized into two major components: Operations, and Programs and Outcomes Improvement.

FOSTER PARENT OMBUDSMAN
The position of Foster Parent Ombudsman was created within the Office of Secretary in 2008. From April to December 2015, the Ombudsman reported to the Executive Director of the Social Services Administration. In December 2015, the position transferred to the Office of Secretary, and in 2023 to the Social Services Administration.

The Foster Parent Ombudsman serves as an advocate for foster parents and kinship providers, and may act as an intermediary between them and local departments of social services when issues need to be resolved. Further, the Ombudsman may investigate complaints against foster parents.

OPERATIONS

PROGRAMS

This division is responsible for the Office of Adult Services; Child Protective Services and Family Preservation; Permanency; and Placement. It is assisted by the Maryland Commission on Caregiving and the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children.

OFFICE OF ADULT SERVICES
Within the Social Services Administration, the Office of Adult Services began as the Office of Adult and Family Services. In 1987, it was renamed Office of Adult Services. It transferred to the Community Services Administration in 1990, was renamed Office of Adult and Family Services in 1996, and again became Office of Adult Services in January 1999. In April 2008, the Office transferred back to the Social Services Administration.

Vulnerable or elderly citizens are helped by the Office to strengthen family and community ties so that they may live in the community (Code Human Services Article, secs. 6-501 through 6-708).

Community-Based Services. Under the Office of Adult Services are community-based services, including Adult Protective Services; the Adult Public Guardianship Program; the Representative Payee Program; and Social Services to Adults.

Adult Protective Services. This program protects the health, safety, and welfare of endangered, vulnerable adults, aged 18 or over, who lack the physical or mental capacity to provide for their daily needs. The program works to prevent or remedy neglect, self-neglect, abuse, or exploitation of adults unable to protect their own interests or at risk of harming themselves or others.

Adult Public Guardianship Program. Through this program, local departments of social services are the guardians of last resort for vulnerable persons aged 18 to 65. For persons who have been certified medically incompetent, the guardian makes decisions about nonfinancial matters. For vulnerable persons aged 65 or older, the Office on Aging and area aging agencies serve as the guardians of last resort.

Representative Payee Program. This program helps vulnerable low-income individuals manage their monthly Social Security benefit when no family member or friend is available. For the individual, the representative payee ensures that financial obligations are met. By helping vulnerable adults maintain economic self-sufficiency and support, the Program reduces the number of adults placed in institutions, and prevents their financial exploitation.

Social Services to Adults. This is the Department's core program of social work services for adults aged 18 and older. The program helps adults to be self-supporting and self-sufficient and to avoid abuse, neglect, or exploitation. It helps those who need institutional care secure it and protects those who do not from unnecessary institutionalization. These services build, sustain, and augment family and community support.

Home-Based Services. The Office also oversees home-based services, including the Certified Adult Residential Environment Program; In-Home Aide Services; and the Respite Care Program.

Certified Adult Residential Environment Program. Within the Social Services Administration, the Program was established in 1986 (Chapter 626, Acts of 1986). It transferred to the Community Services Administration in 1990.

The Program arranges for private citizens to accept into their homes and care adults with disabilities who otherwise would reside in institutions. The Program develops such housing, licenses care givers, and places clients in homes. Its case managers meet with care providers and clients to monitor these adult foster-care arrangements. The Program serves persons with mental or physical disabilities, including persons with HIV/AIDS.

In-Home Aide Services. This program provides necessary assistance in the home for people whose cases are managed through local departments of social services. Eligibility for this assistance does not depend on income.

Respite Care Program. Started in 1984, the Program provides temporary short-term care for disabled or elderly persons to whom family members normally give care. Services may be scheduled or given as needed. They may be offered in the home or in day-care facilities, nursing-care facilities, the home of a certified caseworker, community-based respite-care homes, or other sites approved or requested by the family. By allowing the family much needed breaks from care giving, the Program reduces the likelihood of institutionalization, neglect, or abuse.

MARYLAND COMMISSION ON CAREGIVING
The Maryland Commission on Caregiving originally formed as the Maryland Caregivers Support Coordinating Council in October 2001 (Chapter 400, Acts of 2001). In October 2017, it was restructured under its present name (Chapters 67 & 68, Acts of 2017).

Through surveys, public hearings, and a telephone hotline, the Commission evaluates the concerns of family caregivers who provide care for children or adults with developmental disabilities, functional disabilities, challenging behaviors, or age-related disorders and diseases. Unmet needs and priorities of these caregivers are identified by the Commission, which coordinates services provided by State and local agencies, and develops and distributes a handbook of services available. In addition, the Commission develops a model program for family caregiver support that incorporates best practices from programs here and in other states. Successful respite care programs in other states are reviewed by the Commission, which also provides ongoing analysis of best practices in family caregiver support programs in Maryland and other states.

Nineteen members constitute the Commission. Seventeen are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor, and one member each is appointed by the Senate President, and the House Speaker (Code Human Services Article, secs. 7-301 through 7-305).

INTERSTATE COMPACT ON THE PLACEMENT OF CHILDREN
In July 1975, Maryland jointed the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (Chapter 266, Acts of 1975; Code Family Law Article, secs. 5-601 through 5-611). Formerly overseen by Child Welfare Practice and Policy, responsibilities were reassigned in March 2011 to Resource Development, Placement, and Support Services, which became Placement Services and Interagency Initiatives in October 2014. These responsibilities in December 2015 were reassigned to Foster Care Policy and Practice, which reformed as Systems Improvement in March 2017.

The Compact sets statutory guidelines for placing children out of their state of residence for purposes of adoption, foster care, or treatment in a licensed residential center. Not only does the Compact ensure that children are placed in safe environments, but it also clarifies legal and financial responsibility for such children.

PERMANENCY
Under the Social Services Administration, Permanency formed as Permanency Services, and became Placement and Permanency in 2016. By April 2024, it was renamed Permanency.

PLACEMENT
Under the Social Services Administration, Placement formed as Permanency Services, and became Placement and Permanency in 2016. By April 2024, it was renamed Placement

ADOPTION SEARCH, CONTACT, & REUNION
Since October 1999, adoption search, contact, and reunion services have been available to birth parents and adult adoptees, aged 21 or older. For a fee, a confidential intermediary initiates a search and assesses the other party's willingness to provide information.

MUTUAL-CONSENT VOLUNTARY ADOPTION REGISTRY
The Mutual-Consent Voluntary Adoption Registry began in 1986. The Registry registers and matches adult adoptees, birth parents, and birth siblings who wish to be reunited.

PROTECTION, PREVENTION, & PRESERVATION
Under the Social Services Administration, Protection, Prevention, and Preservation started, as Child Welfare Organizational Development and Training. It reorganized as Child Protective Services and Family Preservation in March 2017, and further reformed as Protection, Prevention, and Preservation in February 2022.

Protection, Prevention, and Preservation sets standards and policy for local departments of social services in their services to children and families that work to ensure children are safe and families have necessary supports to remain together. Within local offices of social services, child protective services receive reports of suspected child abuse and neglect. Any health practitioner, educator, human service worker, or police officer is required by law to report any suspected child abuse or neglect to the local department of social services or the appropriate law enforcement agency. When a report of suspected child abuse or neglect is received by the local department, the report first is assessed to determine whether it will be assigned to the Investigative Response pathway or an Alternative Response for lower risk cases.

TALENT & CUSTOMER SERVICE

OFFICE OF EMPLOYMENT & PROGRAM EQUITY

In 1968, the Office of Employment and Program Equity started as the Office of Equal Opportunity under the Deputy Secretary for Operations. The Office adopted its present name and moved to the Office of the Secretary in January 1999. By April 2024, the Office moved under the newly-formed Talent and Customer Service.

The Office works to ensure that Department programs and offices statewide operate in an equitable manner for all Maryland citizens.

Department personnel programs are the responsibility of the Office. Local departments of social services in each county and Baltimore City also are aided by the Office in recruitment, selection, classification, compensation, employer-employee relations, employee benefits, and staff training.

OFFICE OF TALENT ENGAGEMENT & MANAGEMENT

The Office of Talent Engagement and Management originated as the Office of Personnel in 1970, part of the Department of Employment and Social Services. Under the Department of Human Resources, the Office was renamed the Office of Human Resource Development and Training in 1996. The Office was placed under the Chief of Staff in July 2015, and in December 2015 under the Office of Planning and Performance. In January 2016, the Office transferred to Strategy and Administration. Renamed as the Office of Human Resources it moved under Operations in January 2020 within the Department of Human Services. Later renamed the Office of Human Resource Development and Training, it moved by April 2024 under Talent and Customer Service. In June 2024, the Office reformed as the Office of Talent Engagement and Management.

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