The "Right to Mental Health for Individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing Act" aims to improve access to mental health services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, recognizing their unique communication needs. The bill mandates that mental health professionals deliver services in a culturally affirmative and linguistically appropriate manner, utilizing the clients' primary communication methods, which may include sign language. It also allows for the use of telemedicine and remote technologies when an interpreter is not available in a timely manner. Clients have the right to decline interpreter services voluntarily without penalty, and mental health professionals must secure a signed waiver if clients refuse all offered services.

Additionally, the bill establishes a deaf services coordinator within the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) to oversee the implementation of these services and ensure adequate resources and training for mental health professionals. The DMHAS and the Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DDHH) are tasked with ensuring the availability and quality of mental health services, including recruiting certified professionals and monitoring service delivery. An advisory committee composed of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, mental health professionals, and educators will provide guidance on the act's implementation. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance mental health outcomes for this underserved population by ensuring they receive appropriate and accessible services.