Establishing maternal mental and behavioral health care workforce grants
Impact
If enacted, H1995 would amend Chapter 6A of the General Laws to allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to entities that establish or enhance programs tailored to training mental and behavioral health care providers. The bill promotes diversity within the workforce by prioritizing entities committed to recruiting students from medically underserved populations and maternal health care deserts. Additionally, it outlines requirements for grant recipients, including bias training and an emphasis on serving populations with significant disparities in maternal health outcomes.
Summary
House Bill H1995, titled 'An Act establishing maternal mental and behavioral health care workforce grants,' aims to address critical shortages in the maternal mental and behavioral health care workforce in Massachusetts. The bill proposes the establishment of a grant program administered by the Secretary of Health and Human Services to support the growth and diversification of this workforce, particularly in areas designated as having inadequate access to maternal health care. This initiative is designed to expand training programs and educational opportunities for potential health care providers focused on maternal mental health and behavioral issues.
Contention
The discussions surrounding H1995 may involve contention regarding the prioritization of funding and resources towards specific communities, as well as the administrative oversight required to effectively implement and monitor these grant programs. There might also be concerns raised about the potential impact on existing programs and the ability to effectively attract professionals to underserved areas. The bill necessitates comprehensive reporting on the outcomes of funded programs, which could serve as a point of debate on accountability and effectiveness in addressing maternal health disparities.
Changes the name of "applied behavior assistant analyst" to "assistant applied behavior analyst" and makes several changes to provide consistency in the certification language for behavioral analysts.
Changes the name of "applied behavior assistant analyst" to "assistant applied behavior analyst" and makes several changes to provide consistency in the certification language for behavioral analysts.
Health: licensing; behavioral health transportation licensing requirements; provide for. Amends 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1001 - 330.2106) by adding ch. 9B. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0927'26
Health occupations: health professionals; limited license for certain individuals engaging in the practice of applied behavior analysis; provide for. Amends secs. 16343a, 18253 & 18257 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16343a et seq.).