The public will get a chance to offer recommendations on how Vermont’s mental health system should be structured.
Vermont lawmakers are holding a public hearing next week on a draft mental health care bill.
Rep. Ann Pugh, chair of the House Human Services Committee, told fellow Democrats at the start of the session that she thinks lawmakers can reach a consensus on how to replace the Vermont State Hospital in Waterbury.
The antiquated hospital was forced to close on an emergency basis when it was flooded by Tropical Storm Irene in late August.
Gov. Peter Shumlin has proposed a new secure, acute-care facility in Berlin, expanded psychiatric facilities in Brattleboro and Rutland, and additional community placements for eligible people.
The public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in room 11 of the Statehouse.