Bill

S 169

An Act relative to health care quality for children and youth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 169 ensures children in Massachusetts DYS custody receive high-quality health care, meeting pediatric standards, and mandates monitoring for improved access and outcomes.

Accompanied a study order, see S2754

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Bill Summary · S 169

Summary of Bill S 169: An Act Relative to Health Care Quality for Children and Youth

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 169 aims to enhance the quality of health care services provided to children and youth in the custody of the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services (DYS). The legislation seeks to ensure that these vulnerable populations receive health care that meets or exceeds established pediatric standards, thereby promoting better health outcomes and continuity of care.

Key Provisions

The bill includes two main sections that amend existing laws:

Section 1: Health Care Standards

Amendment to Chapter 18A, Section 2: This section mandates that physical and mental health services for children committed to DYS must meet or exceed current pediatric community level standards of care.
Standards Set by the American Academy of Pediatrics: The bill specifies that the health services should include:
- Preventative health care
- Health promotion
- Continuity of health care before and after release from custody

Section 2: Monitoring and Enforcement

Amendment to Chapter 18A, Section 6: This section expands the responsibilities of the DYS to include monitoring and enforcement of health care contracts.
Focus on Access and Quality: The goal is to improve access to medical care and the overall quality of health services for children in DYS custody.

Affected Parties

Children and Youth in Custody: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are children and youth who are in the care of the Department of Youth Services.
Department of Youth Services: The DYS will have increased responsibilities regarding the oversight of health care services.
Health Care Providers: Providers will need to align their services with the new standards set forth in the bill.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025.
Committee Referral: It has been referred to the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.
Hearing Scheduled: A public hearing is set for November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Room A-2, where stakeholders can provide input on the bill.

Related Legislation

SD 2002: This bill replaces Senate Docket 2002, which may have addressed similar issues.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 169, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, affected parties, and procedural details to inform stakeholders and the public about its implications for health care quality for children and youth in Massachusetts.

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