Sec. 1. 34-B MRSA §1204, sub-§10 is enacted to read:

10.__Competitive bidding.__The commissioner shall place out for competitive bidding all contracts and renewals of contracts for mental health services to all client groups served by the department.

Sec. 2. Delivery of mental health services. The Commissioner of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services shall by rule ensure the equitable delivery of mental health services to consumers. Rules adopted pursuant to this Act are routine technical rules as defined by the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter II-A.

Rules adopted must ensure:

1. The availability of voluntary and involuntary beds for transition, vocational rehabilitation, day treatment and residence;

2. That home visits and services are included in the services offered to the consumers who reside in voluntary and involuntary residences;

3. That funding for all mental health services is distributed equitably and is available to all geographic regions of the State; and

4. That the Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services works closely with the Maine affiliate of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill to ensure satisfactory treatment and options to all consumers.

SUMMARY

The purpose of this bill is to provide equitable delivery of mental health services to all consumers in the State.