1. (a)

   1. (1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the Secretary shall establish procedures for the distribution of money from the Fund.
   2. (2) In establishing procedures for awarding grants under § 24-1503 of this subtitle, the Secretary shall consult with the members of the Children's Cabinet.
   3. (3) In establishing procedures for awarding grants under § 24-1506 of this subtitle, including the procedure by which a federally qualified health center, hospital, or provider of prenatal care may apply for a grant, the Secretary shall consult with the Maternal and Child Health Bureau in the Department.

2. (b) Priority on awarding grants under § 24-1503 of this subtitle shall be given to proposals from a county or municipality that:

   1. (1) Has:

      1. (i) A high number of births to women enrolled in Medicaid;
      2. (ii) High rates of infant mortality;
      3. (iii) High rates of preterm births; and
      4. (iv) High rates of infants with low birthweight; and
   2. (2) Demonstrates that the program will be coordinated with community-based service providers.

3. (c) Priority on awarding grants under § 24-1506 of this subtitle shall be given to proposals from federally qualified health centers, hospitals, or providers of prenatal care that propose to serve communities that have:

   1. (1) A high number of births to women enrolled in the Maryland Medical Assistance Program;
   2. (2) High rates of infant mortality;
   3. (3) High rates of preterm births; and
   4. (4) High rates of infants with low birthweight.

Added by Acts 2018, c. 558, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2018; Acts 2018, c. 559, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2018. Amended by Acts 2021, c. 494, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2021; Acts 2021, c. 495, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2021.