Legislature Proposes Behavioral Health Bonds to Expand Mental Health Treatment Capacity
The ChronicleJan 20, 2018
The legislation comes at a time when reports and analysis show the state had inadequate options for those who face a variety of mental crisis, according to a press release from Braun's office.
The proposed legislation authorizes up to
The funds could be used for treatment options that include evaluation and treatment centers, detoxification centers, crisis and stabilization centers, transitional housing or other options.
The measure would be subject to a vote in the November general election.
"Treating people with mental illness in their community keeps them closer to their family and improves long-term outcomes," Braun, R-
The state has taken steps to invest an additional
"We have a crisis in mental health in this state. We are under court order to improve the system in a variety of ways, and this includes expanding the entire range of facilities," Frockt, D-
A report by the
The report also highlighted that
"While we've made progress in recent years, it's clear that the scale of problems demands a more widespread and flexible approach," Braun said.
The bonds would allow the Legislature to appropriate the money raised from the Community Behavioral Bond Account, a dedicated fund created in the bill.
The capacity could be expanded depending on what type of facilities the future Legislature chooses to invest in. There will also be match or grant funds available for individual projects.
"I am looking forward to working with
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