Bill > H2231

This bill requires the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health to establish at least 14 regional peer respites throughout the state, with at least one peer respite in each county. A peer respite is defined as a voluntary, short-term, community-based residential program that provides support to adults experiencing emotional or mental distress in a home-like environment. The bill specifically mandates two peer respites dedicated to serving LGBTQIA+ individuals and two peer respites dedicated to serving the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community, with each being managed by members of those respective communities who have related lived experience. These peer respites will be staffed by "peer supporters" - individuals who have personal experience with mental health challenges and have completed or are completing specialized training. The department must provide sufficient funding to support these centers, including resources for recruiting, training, and compensating peer supporters. The bill also requires the department to develop training standards, create a reporting mechanism to track implementation progress, and submit an annual report to legislative committees detailing the establishment and challenges of these peer respites. The overall goal is to provide community-based, trauma-informed, culturally competent support that focuses on recovery, resiliency, and wellness for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2231