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Bill

SD 1917

Resolve providing for a study and recommendations by a special commission relative to access to behavioral health services for children and families in the commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts creates a special commission to study barriers to children's behavioral health services and recommend improvements to access across the state.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 1917

Legislative bill overview

SD 1917 establishes a special commission to study and develop recommendations for improving access to behavioral health services for children and families in Massachusetts. The commission will examine current barriers, gaps, and inefficiencies in the state's mental health and substance use treatment system for young people and their families.

Why is this important

Massachusetts faces documented shortages in pediatric mental health services, long wait times, and unequal access across regions and income levels. This study could inform policy changes affecting how thousands of families access critical services for conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders affecting children and adolescents.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and timeline: The bill doesn't specify commission size, duration, or budget, leaving implementation details unclear and potentially affecting study depth
  • Implementation vs. study: Critics may argue the state already has sufficient data on behavioral health gaps and needs action rather than additional study
  • Funding allocation: Resources devoted to a commission study might be viewed as preferable if directly allocated to expanding services instead

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

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