Bill > LD1084

This bill addresses the behavioral health workforce shortage by requiring the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to make significant changes to training and certification processes for mental health professionals by January 1, 2026. Specifically, the bill will allow community-based agencies and hospitals to develop and conduct their own in-house training programs and certify their own staff for three key positions: mental health rehabilitation technicians, certified residential medication aides, and behavioral health professionals. Currently, these agencies must rely on third-party contractors to provide training and certification, which can be time-consuming and potentially create barriers to workforce development. By eliminating third-party contracts and approval requirements, the bill aims to streamline the certification process, potentially making it easier and faster for agencies to train and qualify staff, thereby helping to alleviate the ongoing shortage of behavioral health workers. The resolve gives DHHS until the beginning of 2026 to amend its rules to implement these changes, providing ample time for preparation and transition.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1084&snum=132