K.__Provisions for a fair, timely and impartial grievance procedure for the purpose of ensuring appropriate administrative resolution of grievances with respect to infringement of rights, including the right of appeal before an independent hearing officer.

3.__Public hearing.__The commissioner shall hold a public hearing before adopting these rules and shall give notice of the public hearing pursuant to Title 5, section 8053.

SUMMARY

The Maine Revised Statutes, Title 34-B, section 3003 provides for the enhancement and protection of rights of clients receiving services from the Department of Behavioral and Developmental Services, from a state mental health institute or from a private mental health institution under a contract with the State to receive involuntary patients. This bill establishes the same enhancement and protection of rights for patients receiving services from a private hospital for the treatment of mental illness.