Bill > S128

This bill establishes a special commission to comprehensively review the regulations and practices of the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS), with a specific focus on improving service delivery for individuals with autism and intellectual developmental disabilities. The commission will be composed of 13 members, including state legislators from both the Senate and House of Representatives, representatives from key disability advocacy organizations like the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers and The Arc of Massachusetts, and appointees from the Autism Commission and the Permanent Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities. The commission's mandate includes investigating and studying six key areas: removing regulatory barriers, streamlining licensing processes, enhancing service delivery to high-need populations, improving transition planning for individuals with complex medical needs, examining clinical regulations around emerging technologies and protective equipment, and reviewing placement authority. The commission is required to be fully appointed by December 31, 2025, hold its first meeting by April 15, 2025, and submit a comprehensive report with findings and potential legislative recommendations to the state legislature by December 31, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S128