Maryland's Local Management Boards were created in the early 1990s as part of a statewide effort to transform how Maryland addresses the needs of children, youth, and families. Rooted in the vision of more responsive and locally driven solutions, LMBs were established to serve as the bridge between state priorities and local needs, empowering communities to address their most pressing challenges.
The Boards were charged with identifying priorities and targeting resources for a jurisdiction's communities. The major focus was to increase local authority to plan, implement, and monitor children and family services.
Executive Order 01.01.2005.34 was issued on June 9, 2005, establishing the Children's Cabinet and the Governor's Office for Children. During the 2006 Legislative Session, the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 294/HB301 that re-codified the Boards, and that legislation was signed into law on May 2, 2006. Article 49D was reorganized and incorporated into Title 8 of the Human Services Article of the Maryland Annotated Code effective October 1, 2007.
Each jurisdiction across Maryland established an LMB to convene community leaders, assess local conditions, and invest in programs and services that promote family well-being.
Over the years, LMBs have evolved into critical pillars of their communities, addressing issues such as:
Today, the Maryland Association of Local Management Boards (MALMB) unites all 24 LMBs to amplify their collective impact, promote policy solutions, and advocate for the resources necessary to build healthier, more resilient communities.
Our history is one of partnership, innovation, and unwavering dedication to Maryland’s most vulnerable residents. Looking to the future, we remain committed to working with local leaders, state agencies, and community partners to ensure that every family in Maryland has the opportunity to thrive.
LMBs are committed to collaborating with state and local partners to make systems equitable and effective for children, youth and families.
Each county operates an LMB to ensure the implementation of a local interagency service delivery system for children, youth, and families. We are neutral conveners bringing diverse voices together and work where families and children live and where they receive services.
