Nj bill to for mental health care for the deaf advances — Trenton, New Jersey, United States of America â€“ September 6, 2016. Interior view of the New Jersey State House in Trenton, NJ. View of the rotunda with architectural details. File Photo by Zeytun Photos.

TRENTON, NJ – The Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee has progressed legislation sponsored by Senator Linda Greenstein and Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz. The bill seeks to establish the “Right to Mental Health Care for Individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing Act” and sets forth requirements to ensure access to mental health services for such individuals.

According to Senator Greenstein, deaf or hard of hearing individuals often encounter significant hurdles due to cultural and communication barriers, especially regarding mental health care. The proposed legislation aims to ensure these individuals receive care utilizing their preferred method of communication, alleviating the barriers that often impede their access to appropriate care.

The bill, identified as S-1067, mandates that the Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, in collaboration with the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, offer culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health services. Mental health professionals would need certification from the DDHH to confirm their competence in working with interpreters, understanding clients’ cultural needs, and using clients’ primary communication methods.

Senator Ruiz emphasizes that equitable access to mental health resources is essential for everyone, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

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