Howard University School of Social Work Champions Health Equity Through New Maryland Legislation

Howard University School of Social Work Alumna and Student Advocate Champion Landmark Heart Health Legislation in Maryland

The Howard University School of Social Work (HUSSW) celebrates the advocacy and leadership of alumna Florence Champagne, MSW, and current Bahati Bridges, MSW who played pivotal roles in the recent passage of a groundbreaking healthcare bill in Maryland. On May 20, 2025, Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed into law the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and Health Insurance – Required Coverage for Calcium Score Testing (HB0666), a measure that will expand access to coronary calcium score testing through Medicaid and private insurance providers.

This new legislation requires insurers in Maryland to cover coronary calcium score testing—a non-invasive screening tool that helps detect early signs of heart disease, particularly among at-risk populations. The bill marks a significant advancement in preventive care access, especially for underserved communities disproportionately affected by cardiovascular conditions.

Howard alumna Florence Champagne, founder of the Open My Heart Foundation, and members of the foundation were present for the bill’s signing. The foundation has been a leading voice in heart health advocacy, raising awareness and elevating the voices of women—particularly Black women—who have experienced heart disease firsthand.

Bahati Bridges, a 2025 MSW candidate and former intern with the Open My Heart Foundation, contributed vital research and policy support that helped move the legislation forward. Her involvement underscores HUSSW's commitment to preparing students to be change agents in policy and practice.

Special recognition also goes to Maryland Delegate Jamila Woods, MSW, who introduced the bill, as well as the coalition of supporting delegates, board members, and courageous survivors whose testimonies were instrumental in driving legislative change.

Read more about the bill here: Maryland General Assembly HB0666