Bill > LD1380

This bill establishes the Study Group on Solutions to Address Maine's Behavioral Health Workforce Shortage, a 14-member committee composed of state legislators, representatives from mental health and addiction organizations, community providers, hospitals, and educational institutions, as well as the Commissioner of Health and Human Services. The study group's primary task is to comprehensively review Maine's behavioral health workforce challenges, focusing on current workforce trends, access to services, and potential solutions. Specifically, they will explore the feasibility of four key initiatives: establishing a pilot program for community behavioral health teaching agencies (modeled after Washington state's approach), enhancing loan repayment programs for behavioral health professionals, introducing stipend programs for students and interns in the field, and analyzing the overall impact of these strategies on addressing workforce shortages. By December 3, 2025, the group is required to submit a detailed report with findings and recommended legislation to the Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services, which can then propose legislation during the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature. The bill aims to systematically address the critical gaps in Maine's behavioral health workforce by bringing together diverse stakeholders to develop comprehensive, targeted solutions.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1380&snum=132