Senate Bill No. [number], introduced by D. Lenz, aims to revise laws related to service area authorities in Montana by expanding the duties of the Department of Mental Health and the service area authorities themselves. Key provisions include the requirement for the Department to support a minimum of three service area authorities, provide annual contracts to each authority, and establish reporting requirements. The bill also mandates the Department to assist counties and tribal nations in developing local mental health advisory councils and to respond to recommendations from service area authorities within ten days. Additionally, the Department is tasked with providing liaisons for children's mental health and child and family services, as well as funding for various administrative and support services.

The bill amends existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), specifically 53-21-1002 and 53-21-1006, to enhance the structure and accountability of service area authorities. It introduces new requirements for public meetings to establish stakeholder leadership committees, which must include a diverse representation of consumers and family members of those with mental illness. Furthermore, service area authorities are required to submit annual reports to the governor, department, and legislature detailing their budgets, recommendations, and relationships with local advisory councils. The bill also supersedes existing unfunded mandate laws, ensuring that the new provisions are effectively implemented.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 53-21-1002, 53-21-1006
SB0469_1(1): 53-21-1002, 53-21-1006
SB0469_1: 53-21-1002, 53-21-1006