Chapter 257 Negotiations with

 Massachusetts EOHHS Nearly Complete

Dear Collaborative Member,

Following our win at the Supreme Judicial Court a few weeks ago, we wanted to share with you an update on the recent series of meetings between representatives from the ADDP, ABH, the Provider's Council and the Children's League, with the EOHHS Secretary Marylou Sudders and representatives of her department.

We have agreed to a two-week extension (March 9, 2015) of the judge's ruling as we draft attempt to finalize our negotiations with the EOHHS. We have been encouraged with the progress of the negotiations to date and look forward to sharing the details with you as soon as the agreement is finalized.

This process has been long and we appreciate your steadfast support along the way. As we hammer out the final details of a possible agreement, we are pleased with the willingness of the new administration to act in good faith in their negotiations.

"After years of delays in implementation, have been pleased with the progress made in recent negotiations. We're happy that the goals of Chapter 257 appear to be within reach and look forward to sharing the details with all of our members very soon," said Vic DiGravio, President and CEO of the Association for Behavioral Healthcare.

Best,

Michael, Vic, Gary and Erin