The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 192, aims to enhance patient protections and standards of care at Connecticut Valley Hospital. It mandates the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services to develop policies and standards relating to clients residing on the hospital campus, their discharge into the community, and individuals undergoing psychiatric evaluations at the facility. Notably, the bill stipulates that no discharge of clients committed to Whiting Forensic Hospital can occur without compliance with specific statutory provisions, and it requires that individuals undergoing psychiatric evaluations be separated according to their biological sex at all times.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Connecticut Valley Hospital Advisory Council to advise the Commissioner on various policies, including building use and client discharge. The council will consist of members appointed by local officials and will include individuals with lived experience of behavioral health disorders. The bill repeals the existing Section 17a-471a and replaces it with the new provisions, which will take effect on October 1, 2026.

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Raised Bill: