WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 2219

An Act expanding access to mental health services and strengthening risk assessment protocols

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle Badger and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill expands mental health service availability and establishes standardized risk assessment protocols to improve patient safety and care equity.

Accompanied a study order, see H5319 (under House Rule 27)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 2219

Legislative bill overview

H 2219 expands access to mental health services in Massachusetts while establishing or strengthening protocols for assessing risk of harm to self or others. The bill aims to improve both the availability of mental health care and the procedures clinicians use to evaluate patient safety and dangerousness.

Why is this important

Mental health service gaps and inconsistent risk assessment practices have significant consequences for individuals in crisis and public safety. Stronger access and standardized assessment protocols can reduce preventable deaths, emergency department burdens, and ensure more equitable care across Massachusetts communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding mechanisms: Expanding services requires substantial state resources; debate likely centers on whether funding comes from new taxes, reallocation, or healthcare provider assessments
  • Risk assessment standardization: Clinicians may resist mandated protocols as potentially limiting clinical judgment or creating liability concerns; concerns about false positives leading to unnecessary involuntary commitments
  • Defining "access": Disagreement possible over whether expansion means increased provider reimbursement, new facilities, telemedicine requirements, or specific service types like crisis hotlines or peer support

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.