The bill amends Section 42-72-5 of the General Laws in Chapter 42-72, designating the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) as the primary agency responsible for overseeing and administering comprehensive behavioral health services for children, including those in DCYF care, children with serious emotional disturbances, and children with developmental or functional disabilities. It emphasizes the importance of prevention and intervention services across various domains, including child welfare, behavioral health, and juvenile justice.

The bill requires DCYF to create a framework for children's behavioral health services that adheres to Medicaid requirements, ensuring that services are accessible, coordinated, and culturally responsive. It mandates the establishment of a governance structure for seamless coordination with other state agencies, including the Department of Health, the Department of Human Services, and the Department of Education, while maintaining a child-centered focus in service delivery.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for collaboration with the state Medicaid agency to ensure adherence to the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) provisions. It expands DCYF's authority to oversee comprehensive behavioral health services and emphasizes the need for a system of care that is flexible, coordinated, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive.

The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5718: 42-72-5