ME LD769

Creates separate behavioral health support framework for adults (18+) with intellectual disabilities or autism, distinguishing between "positive behavioral health support plans" (no rights waivers, focused on community participation) and "modifying behavioral health support plans" (may include rights waivers with informed consent, requires department approval)

Prohibits seclusion, corporal punishment, planned restraints, painful stimuli, totally enclosed cribs/beds, and dehumanizing actions in adult behavioral support plans; allows restraints only as emergency short-term measures to prevent imminent injury

Establishes requirements for safety devices (helmets, locks, video monitoring, etc.) for adults, requiring written recommendation from licensed medical provider, planning team approval, and consent from the adult or guardian

Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to convene a quarterly support and safety committee to review plan data, and to study behavioral health supports for children with recommendations due by December 1, 2026

Most provisions take effect April 1, 2026, with a transition period allowing existing behavior modification plans with restraints to continue until April 1, 2027 if approved by the department