Budget Amendment ID: FY2027-S4-511-R2

2nd Redraft EHS 511

Plan to Transfer Oversight of Bridgewater State Hospital

Ms. Creem and Messrs. Brady, Montigny and Eldridge moved that the proposed new text be amended in section 2, in item 5011-0100, by adding the following words:- “; provided further, that the department of mental health, in consultation with the department of correction, shall conduct a comprehensive investigation into the steps necessary to transfer the oversight and management of Bridgewater state hospital from the department of correction to the department of mental health; provided further, that not later than June 30, 2027, the department of mental health shall submit an implementation plan to the joint committee on mental health, substance use and recovery, joint committee on public safety and homeland security and the senate and house committees on ways and means detailing the findings and recommendations of the comprehensive investigation which shall include, but not be limited to: (i) an estimated timeline for the implementation of a secure transition of oversight and management of the operations of Bridgewater state hospital by not later than December 31, 2028 without requiring the designation or construction of a new facility; (ii) the potential impact that department of mental health oversight would have on access to clinical mental health services and supports for residents; (iii) drafts of legislation necessary to facilitate the transfer of oversight and management of the hospital; (iv) proposed enhancements to staff training to ensure compliance with the legal requirements regarding the use of restraints and seclusion on patients in a residential mental health care facility; (v) an analysis of current staffing ratios; (vi) proposed measures to reduce and prevent mold growth and improve air quality; (vii) the fiscal impacts associated with the transfer of oversight and management; and (viii) any additional measures to provide a safe and improved therapeutic environment for providers and residents of the hospital”.