Bill > H3313

This bill transfers the administration and oversight of Bridgewater State Hospital from the Department of Corrections to the Department of Mental Health, fundamentally changing how the facility will be managed and operated. Under the new framework, the Commissioner of Mental Health will be responsible for providing medical and mental health treatment for individuals at the facility, with a focus on forensic mental health services. The bill creates a new division of forensic mental health services within the Department of Mental Health that will handle court-ordered evaluations, competency assessments, restoration programs, and specialized risk evaluations. Additionally, the legislation mandates that the Commissioner conduct a feasibility study for constructing a new treatment facility that better supports patient health and recovery, with potential locations including the Worcester Recovery Center campus. The bill removes numerous references to the medical director at Bridgewater State Hospital in existing laws and repeals several sections related to the hospital's previous operational structure. Importantly, the bill requires the transfer and new management approach to be fully implemented by December 31, 2026, signaling a comprehensive and deliberate transition of the hospital's administrative and clinical responsibilities.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3313