Bill > S79

This bill establishes a special commission tasked with investigating and recommending changes to laws and regulations concerning behavior modification techniques, including aversive procedures and applied behavior analysis, used by any public or private agency in the Commonwealth that receives public funding. The commission will examine the current scope of permissible techniques, the classification of behavioral interventions, the content of behavioral plans, and the procedures for developing, reviewing, approving, implementing, and monitoring aversive interventions, with a focus on ensuring the health, safety, dignity, and human rights of individuals. It will also evaluate current behavioral plans within state agencies and contracted providers, and aim to create a unified set of standards for behavior modification procedures, including minimum staff qualifications and review requirements. The commission will be composed of various state officials, including designees from the Governor's office, legislative leadership, and heads of relevant departments like Developmental Services, Mental Health, and Children and Families, along with representatives from advocacy groups and licensed behavior analysts. The commission is authorized to hold public hearings and conduct site visits, and is required to report its findings and recommendations to the legislature by January 1, 2016.