HB 6109 Summary

• Establishes the Division on Behavioral Health for Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing within the Department of Health and Human Services to protect and assist deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing persons on behavioral health matters.

• Requires the division director to hold a master's degree in human services, be fluent in American Sign Language, hold hearing loss support specialist certification or equivalent, and be knowledgeable in behavioral health issues.

• Authorizes the division to advocate for services, work with public and private behavioral health providers, ensure quality coordination of care, provide information and referral services, and sponsor educational conferences and workshops on behavioral health issues.

• Requires the division to ensure access to audiologically appropriate services including sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, CART services, and transportation assistance as needed and preferred by deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing persons.

• Creates the Division on Behavioral Health for Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing Wellness Fund within the state treasury for implementation and administration of the act; takes effect 90 days after enactment only if HB 6110 is also enacted.