This bill establishes the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) prevention and treatment program as a permanent initiative within the Department of Health and Human Services, transitioning it from a pilot program. The bill includes an appropriation of $150,000 for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, to fund this program and support ongoing professional development for child-parent psychotherapy (CPP) services. The program aims to provide prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services for children aged birth to six who have been exposed to adverse childhood experiences and severe emotional disturbances, particularly those whose needs cannot be met through existing childcare and educational services.

Key amendments to the existing law include the insertion of provisions that require the Department of Health and Human Services to establish the ACEs prevention and treatment program, as well as to develop a five-year plan to enhance the state's workforce capacity for delivering CPP services. The bill also modifies existing language regarding Medicaid reimbursement and professional development funding, emphasizing the importance of ongoing training in early childhood mental health care. The effective date for the implementation of this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the Senate: 167:3-l