Legislative Action AlertSupport S.1381 – Include LMHCs in Section 12 AuthorityLicensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) play a critical role in crisis care. S.1381 would allow LMHCs to initiate Section 12 emergency psychiatric evaluations, improving timely access to life-saving mental health intervention across Massachusetts. Take Action NowWhy This Legislation MattersS.1381 would expand Section 12 authority to LMHCs. Currently, LMHCs frequently conduct crisis assessments but must rely on other providers to initiate Section 12 when someone is at risk of serious harm.
Legislative Progress of S.1381
How You Can Help
Email Your LegislatorsYou can quickly send a pre-written message to members of the Senate Rules Committee. Copy and paste this text into an email: Subject: Support S.1381 – Include LMHCs in Section 12 Authority Dear Senator, I am writing to express my support for S.1381, which would include Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) among the professionals authorized to initiate Section 12 emergency psychiatric evaluations in Massachusetts. LMHCs routinely conduct crisis assessments and are often the first clinicians to encounter individuals experiencing acute psychiatric distress. Allowing LMHCs to initiate Section 12 would improve timely access to emergency care and strengthen the Commonwealth’s mental health response system. I respectfully urge the Senate Rules Committee to support S.1381 and maintain the inclusion of LMHCs in Section 12 authority. Thank you for your service to the Commonwealth. Sincerely, Together, mental health professionals can help improve crisis response and expand access to care across Massachusetts. |