Bill > H2000

This bill establishes a permanent 19-member commission on sexual assault and domestic violence service providers to develop and implement statewide standards for organizations that support survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. The commission will include representatives from various government agencies, legislative members, nonprofit leaders, and survivors, who will serve two-year terms without compensation but with expense reimbursement. The commission's primary responsibilities include studying existing service practices, developing uniform minimum service standards, and conducting ongoing reviews to ensure these standards are effective. The bill requires the commission to submit initial recommendations to the executive office of health and human services within 180 days of the act's passage and provide biennial reports thereafter. Additionally, the bill mandates that sexual assault and domestic violence service providers must adhere to these uniform standards to be eligible for state funding, with a process for addressing violations through program improvement and corrective action plans. Providers must also demonstrate non-discrimination in their services across various personal characteristics. The goal is to establish consistent, high-quality support for survivors across the state while maintaining flexibility for continuous improvement.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2000