Bill > A5600

This bill establishes certain requirements concerning the provision of mental health services to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. It requires certified mental health professionals to offer culturally affirmative and linguistically appropriate mental health services using the client's primary method of communication, which can include American Sign Language, English-based manual or sign systems, or oral/aural communication. The bill also mandates the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services to implement and maintain these services, recruit qualified professionals, and develop strategies to ensure access in areas with a shortage of providers, including through telemedicine. Additionally, the bill creates a deaf services coordinator position to oversee the statewide implementation of these services and establishes an advisory committee to provide recommendations.