Urging Maryland to Join the Northeast Public Health Collaboration

I am writing to urge the State of Maryland to formally join the Northeast Regional Public Health Collaboration—a partnership between northeastern states that aims to improve preparedness, coordination, and data sharing across state lines in response to public health threats. As we’ve seen in recent years, public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic do not respect borders. Regional collaboration has proven to be an effective tool in managing public health emergencies, streamlining resources, and promoting consistent communication across states. Maryland’s participation in this growing coalition would strengthen the collective response capabilities of the region and ensure our state is at the table when critical decisions and strategies are developed. Joining the Northeast Public Health Collaboration would allow Maryland to: • Coordinate more effectively with neighboring states on infectious disease response, • Benefit from shared public health data and best practices, • Participate in joint training and emergency preparedness efforts, • Increase public trust through transparent, regionally aligned communication. Maryland has long been a leader in public health innovation and science. Becoming a part of this collaboration would reinforce our commitment to protecting the health and well-being of all Marylanders and supporting our neighbors throughout the Northeast. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I respectfully urge your office to consider the many benefits of joining this regional effort. Please do not hesitate to reach out if I can provide additional information or support.