Bill > H1813

This bill amends Chapter 19 of the General Laws, which pertains to the Department of Mental Health (DMH). Specifically, it updates the list of DMH facilities by removing references to Medfield, Westborough, and Worcester and inserting "the Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital." More significantly, it establishes new provisions for community mental health area boards, referred to as "area boards." These area boards will be agencies of the Commonwealth serving within the DMH and will consist of at least fifteen members appointed by the DMH commissioner. The majority of these members must reside within the area they represent, with the remainder living or working there, and the commissioner will aim for proper geographical representation. Crucially, two-thirds of the members will not be state employees, and no member can be an employee of the DMH. Members will serve three-year terms, with a limit of two consecutive terms, and will not receive compensation but will be sworn to their duties. The area board will also recommend names to the commissioner for expiring terms or vacancies.