Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-511

EHS 511

Plan to Transfer Oversight of Bridgewater State Hospital

Ms. Creem moved that the proposed new text be amended by inserting after section X the following section: - 

“SECTION X:- The Department of Mental Health, in consultation with the Department of Correction, shall develop a plan for the implementation of transferring Bridgewater State Hospital oversight from the Department of Corrections to the Department of Mental Health.

The plan shall include, but not be limited to:- (i) an estimated timetable for the plan’s implementation to secure transition and management of the operations of Bridgewater State Hospital by no later than December 31, 2028 with such transfer not contingent on the designation or construction of a new Bridgewater State Hospital facility; (ii) the impact Department of Mental Health oversight will have on access to clinical mental health services for residents of Bridgewater State Hospital; (iii) how the Department of Mental Health will maintain, in accordance with its standards, services to support the residents of Bridgewater State Hospital; (iv) potential additional measures to reduce and prevent mold growth and improve air quality for residents of Bridgewater State Hospital; (v) enhancements to staff training to ensure compliance with legal requirements regarding the use of restraints and seclusion on patients in a residential mental health care facility; (vi) any laws that would need to be amended to transfer oversight; (vii) staffing ratios; and (viii) any steps necessary to maintain a safe environment and improve the therapeutic environment for providers and residents of the facility.

By not later than July 1, 2027, the Department of Mental Health, in consultation with the Department of Correction, shall report this plan, to the chairs of the joint committee on health care financing, the chair of the Senate committee on ways and means, the chair of the House committee on ways and means, and the clerks of the House and Senate.