City Council Hearing: Public Health & Environment Committee; May 13, 2026

This City Council hearing of the Public Health & Environment Committee on May 13, 2026, focused primarily on the "Be More for Healthy Babies" initiative, a 17-year maternal and infant health program in Baltimore City. Health Department officials presented a strategic refresh of the initiative, highlighting its accomplishments, including a 35% reduction in infant mortality and a 61% decline in teen birth rates. Discussions included the program's funding, which is braided from local, state, federal, and philanthropic sources, with ongoing efforts to secure sustainable funding. The committee also addressed data interoperability challenges between healthcare providers and community organizations, and the integration of behavioral health and trauma-informed care. Additionally, the meeting covered proposed amendments to Baltimore City's forest conservation code to align with new state requirements, including priority retention areas, judicial review processes, and updated mitigation options. The committee deferred voting on the forest conservation bill pending finalized amendments and updated reports, aiming to comply with a July 1 state deadline.