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 experienced 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 establishment of the ACEs prevention and treatment program, which will enhance Medicaid reimbursement for early childhood mental health care, elevate the early childhood and family mental health credential, and offer continued funding for professional development in early childhood mental health care. The bill also mandates the development of a five-year plan to build the state's workforce capacity for providing CPP services to children who have experienced trauma or are facing mental health challenges. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025.

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