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About Us

The Maryland Governor’s Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

The Office advocates for and promotes the general welfare of individuals in Maryland who are Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing. In doing so, it provides, advocates, and coordinates the adoption of public policies, regulations, and programs that will benefit these individuals. The latest federal census of 2020 indicates that 1.2 million Marylanders are deaf or hard of hearing in at least one ear.

For persons who are Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing, the Office seeks to improve access to communication, services, and programs; works with State and local agencies to ensure access to safety and emergency services; and strives to increase access to educational, health and social opportunities.

Authorized in October 2001, the Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing began operation in July 2002 (Chapter 537, Acts of 2001).

Credit to: Maryland Manual On-Line

Mission

The Governor’s Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing represents the Governor following the priorities of Moore/Miller Administration and promotes equality and accessibility for Marylanders by providing expertise that enhances the general welfare of Maryland’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing residents.

Vision

All Marylanders who are Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing will have equal access to resources, services, and opportunities for participation in all aspects of community life.

History of the Office

Numerous studies, temporary commissions, and advisory committees in Maryland over the past thirty years had consistently identified the same recurring issues related to Deaf and hard of hearing constituents from 1966 to 2001. The Governor’s Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing finally became a reality from the collaborative efforts of Maryland Association of the Deaf along with various local organizations serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. In October 2001, the Maryland General Assembly recognized the need for the creation of the Office to serve Maryland’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals through enabling legislation.

Maryland became the 32nd state in the United States to have a separate state entity geared specifically towards the needs of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Marylanders. Additionally, Maryland is a second state that has an office that reports directly to the Governor rather than adhering to a Commission or Board structure in which the director reports to an entity that provides oversight. The office also provides resources upon requests related to Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing.

Responsibilities of the Office

coordination office of the Governor that is focused on advocating and coordinating the adoption of public policies, regulations, and programs.

The current policy priorities of the office includes the following:

Our Priorities
The Moore-Miller Administration aims to make Maryland’s economy more competitive, keep our communities safe, expand opportunity and support Maryland families, and make Maryland a state that serves. Learn about the Administration’s priorities and progress thus far https://priorities.maryland.gov/

Statute Establishing the Office

Annual Reports

Newsletters

The State of Maryland pledges to provide constituents, businesses, customers, and stakeholders with services in the following manner:
  • Friendly and Courteous: We will be helpful and supportive and have a positive attitude and passion for what we do.
  • Timely and Responsive: We will be ​proactive, take initiative, and anticipate your needs.
  • ​Accurate and Consistent: We will always aim for 100% accuracy, and be consistent in how we interpret a​nd implement state policies and procedures.
  • Accessible and Convenient: ​We will continue to simplify and improve access to information and resources.
  • Truthful and Transparent: We will advance a culture of honesty, clarity and trust.

Tell us about your experience with the Office of the Deaf & Hard of Hearing. Click here to complete a three question customer experience survey.

Click here to view our FY19 Customer Service Annual Report.