Bill > H1804

This bill amends Chapter 18C of the General Laws to protect children's mental health services by establishing a statewide Children's Mental Health Ombudsman Program. This program, overseen by the Child Advocate, will advocate for children with behavioral health disorders, identify barriers to effective treatment, and ensure compliance with laws and policies related to children's mental health services. The program will also receive and investigate complaints from children, their legal representatives, or any entity with reason to believe a regulated entity has violated laws or negatively impacted a child's health, safety, welfare, or rights. The bill defines "mental health disorder" as any mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) that significantly hinders a child's functioning and social interactions. The Child Advocate will appoint a qualified director for the ombudsman program and, in consultation with relevant state officials, establish procedures for complaint filing, investigation, and resolution, including the use of state agency enforcement authority. The ombudsman will monitor relevant laws and policies, maintain records of complaints and actions taken, report monthly to government agencies about complaints received, and regularly meet with state officials to discuss systemic issues and potential solutions. Annually, the Child Advocate will report to the Governor and legislative committees on the ombudsman program's activities, complaint patterns, and recommendations for legislative or policy changes, with these reports being publicly accessible.