HB 2247

Abstract

Amends the Developmental Disability and Mental Disability Services Act. Provides that the Department of Human Services shall establish family centers throughout the State to provide counseling and mental health services to families who are indigent based on any behavior or mental health condition as determined by Department rule. Provides that the Department shall employ or contract with psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, clinical social workers, and licensed marriage and family therapists to provide those services. House Floor Amendment No. 1 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Developmental Disability and Mental Disability Services Act. Provides that subject to appropriation, the Department of Human Services' Division of Mental Health shall make available funding for the development and implementation of a comprehensive and coordinated continuum of community-based pilot programs for persons with or at risk for a mental health diagnosis that is sensitive to the needs of local communities. Provides that the funding shall allow for the development of one or more pilot programs that will support the development of local social media campaigns that focus on the prevention or promotion of mental wellness and provide linkages to mental health services, especially for those individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. Sets forth certain criteria a provider must meet to be considered for the pilot program, including the ability to: (i) implement the pilot program in an area that shows a high need or underutilization of mental health services; (ii) collaborate with other systems and government entities that exist in a community; and (iii) provide a presence staffed by mental health professionals in natural community settings, which includes any setting where an individual who has not been diagnosed with a mental illness typically spends time. Authorizes the Department to adopt and implement administrative rules necessary to carry out the pilot program.