The Joint Committee on the Judiciary heard testimony on a bill that would establish parent-child privilege in Massachusetts. In a legally privileged relationship such as between a lawyer and client or between spouses, exchanges are considered confidential and one party cannot be required to testify against the other.  PAL testified in favor of this bill, for this privilege does not exist in Massachusetts, yet should be the most important one. It is especially important for PAL families, since many of the children that come before the court have behavioral health needs.

Read the testimony of the Parent/Professional Advocacy League here.

On October 6, the Joint Committee on Children and Families heard testimony for a bill that would reform the CHINS system, allowing for more community based services for youth. PAL testified in favor of this bill, for it would provide alternatives to petitioning the court for services, and would eliminate the need for parents to relinquish custody in order for their child to receive treatment. It is important that  children remain in their community whenever possible and reduce the need to go to court to find needed services.

Read the testimony of the Parent/Professional Advocacy League here.

The Joint Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse held a hearing regarding a bill that would establish collateral consultations for families with private insurance. PAL testified in favor of this bill, which would help coordinate care for families who have children with mental health issues. It costs less than a dollar a year per member to establish, and would go a long way towards alleviating the stress that parents who act as their child’s coordinator would feel.

Read the testimony of the Parent/Professional Advocacy League here.