An Act establishing a behavioral health workforce center of excellence

This bill establishes a Behavioral Health Workforce Center of Excellence at a public college to address shortages in mental health and addiction treatment professionals across Massachusetts. The center will gather data, research training needs, and map career paths by consulting with higher education institutions and various state agencies. It will also analyze workforce demographics, inventory available licenses, and examine funding opportunities to improve recruitment and retention. An advisory committee comprising representatives from health departments, insurers, and advocacy groups will guide the center's work. Ultimately, the center aims to provide policy leaders with evidence-based recommendations to strengthen the behavioral health workforce pipeline.