Under Statute, the Commissioner is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the General Assembly. Finally, the Central Office is responsible for developing and maintaining close working relationships with the Office of the Attorney General, Secretary of Health and Human Resources, Governor's Office and General Assembly. The Commissioner makes recommendations to the Secretary of Health and Human Resources, Governor's Office and General Assembly. The Commissioner makes recommendations to the Secretary of Health and Human Resources regarding mental health, mental retardation and substance abuse policy. The Secretary, in turn, reviews recommendations and, after further input, provides recommendations to the Governor.
Clients access state operated facilities through CSBs.
Currently there are 40 CSBs serving the citizens of the Commonwealth.