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Bill

HD 2250

An Act transferring Bridgewater State Hospital from the Department of Corrections to the Department of Mental Health

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 2 co-sponsors

Transfer Bridgewater State Hospital from Corrections to Mental Health Department to prioritize psychiatric care over carceral oversight for mentally ill individuals in state custody.

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Bill Summary · HD 2250

Legislative bill overview

This bill transfers operational control of Bridgewater State Hospital from the Massachusetts Department of Corrections to the Department of Mental Health. The facility currently operates as a secure psychiatric hospital within the correctional system, serving individuals with serious mental illness who are involved in the criminal justice system.

Why is this important

The transfer could reshape how the state manages mentally ill individuals in custody, potentially improving clinical care standards and reducing the dual identity of the facility as both a correctional and mental health institution. This reflects broader national debate about whether people with severe mental illness belong primarily under correctional or healthcare oversight.

Potential points of contention

  • Care vs. custody tradeoff: Moving to Mental Health may prioritize therapeutic treatment over security concerns, raising questions about managing potentially dangerous individuals
  • Funding and operational capacity: The Department of Mental Health may lack infrastructure, staffing, and budget to absorb a secure psychiatric facility without significant state investment
  • Population concerns: Unclear whether all current residents would remain at Bridgewater or face transfers; some may be inappropriate for a non-correctional setting, while others may benefit from healthcare-focused management

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

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