The bill proposes an appropriation of $16,000,000 from the strategic investment and improvements fund to the Department of Health and Human Services for a behavioral health facility grant. This funding aims to increase the number of inpatient behavioral health beds in the west central human service center region by at least thirty. To qualify for the grant, entities must commit to operating the facility for a minimum of ten years, with provisions for repayment of the grant amount if this condition is not met. The grant amount may be reduced by ten percent for each year the facility remains operational.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that grant funding will not be awarded until the physical infrastructure of the behavioral health facility is completed and adequate staffing plans are submitted. Notably, the requirements of chapter 54-44.4, which typically govern the selection of grant recipients and the award process, will not apply to this grant program. This legislation aims to enhance behavioral health services in the region by ensuring a stable and adequately supported facility for the long term.