Maryland House Bill 783 mandates implicit bias training for health license renewals

On March 11, 2025, Maryland lawmakers introduced House Bill 783, a significant legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the training requirements for health care professionals in the state. The bill mandates that applicants seeking to renew their licenses or certificates with health occupations boards must complete training programs focused on implicit bias and structural racism. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address disparities in health care and promote cultural competency among health care providers.

Key provisions of House Bill 783 stipulate that applicants must attest to completing an approved training program as part of their first license renewal after April 1, 2026. The bill also allows health occupations boards to adopt regulations that enable applicants to earn continuing education credits for completing these training programs. This approach aims to incentivize ongoing education and awareness around issues of bias and racism in health care settings.

The bill's introduction has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the training is essential for improving patient care and reducing health disparities, particularly for marginalized communities. They emphasize that understanding implicit bias and structural racism is crucial for health care professionals to provide equitable care. However, some opposition has emerged, with critics questioning the effectiveness of such training and expressing concerns about the potential burden on health care providers.

The economic implications of House Bill 783 could be significant, as it may require additional funding for training programs and resources. The bill indicates that the structural racism training will be developed using a grant from the American Nurses Association, highlighting a collaborative effort to advance antiracism initiatives within the health care sector.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, experts suggest that its passage could lead to a transformative shift in how health care professionals are trained in Maryland. If enacted, House Bill 783 may set a precedent for similar initiatives in other states, potentially influencing national standards for health care education and practice.

The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and its future will depend on ongoing discussions and potential amendments as it moves through the legislative agenda. The outcome of House Bill 783 could have lasting effects on health care delivery and equity in Maryland, making it a critical piece of legislation to watch in the coming months.