Governor Patrick Signs 'Yolanda's Law' to Aid Children with Mental Disabilities

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Governor Patrick Signs 'Yolanda's Law' to Aid Children with Mental Disabilities

AP

Story Created: Aug 21, 2008 at 1:32 PM EST

Story Updated: Aug 21, 2008 at 1:32 PM EST

BOSTON (AP) - Gov. Deval Patrick has signed a bill designed to more quickly deliver services to children with mental illness in Massachusetts.
     
The legislation has been called "Yolanda's Law," in memory of Yolanda Torres, a 16-year old from Plymouth who testified before the Legislature in support of the bill, but took her own life earlier this year.
     
Patrick said the new law will make it easier for the state to identify and treat mental illness in children through early screenings.
     
The new law will help train teachers, guidance counselors and nurses to better understand mental health needs in students.
     
It also creates special teams to work together on cases for children who may need services from multiple state agencies.

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