§24–1504.

    (a)    (1)    Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the Secretary shall establish procedures for the distribution of money from the Fund.

        (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)    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.

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

        (1)    Has:

            (i)    A high number of births to women enrolled in Medicaid;

            (ii)    High rates of infant mortality;

            (iii)    High rates of preterm births; and

            (iv)    High rates of infants with low birthweight; and

        (2)    Demonstrates that the program will be coordinated with community–based service providers.

    (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)    A high number of births to women enrolled in the Maryland Medical Assistance Program;

        (2)    High rates of infant mortality;

        (3)    High rates of preterm births; and

        (4)    High rates of infants with low birthweight.