MA S1386

Transfers operational control and oversight of Bridgewater State Hospital from the Department of Corrections to the Department of Mental Health, effective no later than December 31, 2026

Requires the Commissioner of Mental Health to provide all medical and mental health treatment for men at the facility under Department of Mental Health rules and regulations

Establishes a new Division of Forensic Mental Health Services within the Department of Mental Health to handle court-ordered competency evaluations, criminal responsibility assessments, restoration of competency programs, and court clinic operations

Mandates that transfers from Bridgewater to other mental health facilities be executed within 30 days when strict security is no longer required but continued treatment is needed

Removes references to the Bridgewater State Hospital medical director throughout Chapter 123, consolidating authority under the Department of Mental Health superintendent structure