This bill establishes a special commission to study the feasibility of implementing a single-payer health care system in Massachusetts, aiming to provide universal access for all residents regardless of their background. The commission, which includes representatives from various sectors such as labor, business, and health care, is tasked with analyzing costs, reviewing models used by other states and countries, and developing specific recommendations for funding and administration. Its report will cover detailed aspects like transition costs, workforce impacts, and methods to ensure equitable access to services including dental, mental health, and long-term care. Ultimately, the legislation focuses on creating a comprehensive plan rather than immediately enacting a new health care system.
This bill strengthens child welfare protections by creating a statewide network of community-based services and family resource centers designed to help families avoid entering the child protective system. The legislation requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish these centers, which will offer a wide range of support including mental health care, substance use treatment, housing assistance, and educational services. Key provisions mandate the use of standardized screening tools to assess family needs and the creation of a data system to track service gaps and outcomes while maintaining client privacy. Additionally, the bill defines specific terms such as "chronic absenteeism" and "family requiring assistance" to guide how these resources are allocated to children and parents at risk of legal involvement.
Senate, June 29, 2026 -- The committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1402) of Cindy F. Friedman for legislation to ensure access to addiction services, report the accompanying Order (Senate, No. 3151).
This bill amends Massachusetts law to expand who can access certain substance use disorder treatment services beyond just blood relatives. It specifically adds parents, as defined by a 2024 act, and other family members recognized by law to the list of eligible individuals. The change ensures that a broader range of family members can utilize these treatment resources without needing to prove a biological connection.
Report of MassHealth (pursuant to line item 1599-2026 of chapter 102 of the acts of 2021) submitting its Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Fellowship Program (PMHNP) FY26 report
By Representative Chan of Quincy, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Tackey Chan relative to increasing available support systems for those with substance use disorder. Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery.
Report of MassHealth (pursuant to line item 1599-2026 of chapter 102 of the acts of 2021) submitting its Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Fellowship Program (PMHNP) FY25 report
This bill directs the Executive Office of Health and Human Services to submit an annual report for 2025 detailing how Medicaid health plans and their contractors comply with federal mental health parity laws. The report must specifically outline the steps taken to ensure that coverage for mental health and substance use disorders is comparable to coverage for physical health conditions. This requirement applies to the state's Medicaid program and the private entities contracted to administer it, ensuring transparency in how these services are regulated.
This bill requires MassHealth to submit an annual report on mental health parity for the fiscal year 2025, as mandated by state law. The report will detail how the healthcare program ensures equal coverage for mental health services compared to physical health services. By placing the document on file, the legislation makes this compliance data publicly available for review. The measure directly affects MassHealth administrators and the state's oversight of mental health insurance benefits.
This bill serves as a formal communication submitting the annual report for the Community Behavioral Health Promotion and Prevention Commission for fiscal year 2026. The document outlines the commission's role in promoting mental health, preventing substance use disorders, and advising the state legislature on evidence-based policies. It details the commission's 23-member structure, which includes government officials, legislative leaders, and representatives from various health and social service organizations. The text also specifies the commission's duties, such as analyzing data, coordinating wellness programs, and making recommendations to reduce public health costs.
