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 develop a framework for children's behavioral health services that adheres to Medicaid requirements, ensuring that services are accessible, coordinated, and culturally responsive. It mandates that the system of care be child-centered, family-driven, and designed to meet the individual needs of children, with an emphasis on providing services in the least restrictive settings and fostering collaboration across child-serving systems, including health, education, juvenile justice, and family support services.

Additionally, the bill establishes that DCYF shall collaborate with the state Medicaid agency to ensure adherence to the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) provisions. It also includes provisions for DCYF to create a governance structure to ensure seamless coordination with other state agencies while maintaining a child-centered focus in service delivery.

The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
460: 42-72-5