This bill establishes the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) prevention and treatment program as a permanent initiative within the Department of Health and Human Services, rather than a temporary pilot program. The legislation mandates the department to create a comprehensive program aimed at supporting children from birth to age six who have been exposed to adverse childhood experiences and severe emotional disturbances. The program will provide prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services for these children and their families. Key provisions include increasing Medicaid reimbursement for early childhood mental health care, elevating the early childhood and family mental health credential, and offering continued funding for professional development in early childhood mental health care.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $150,000 for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, to fund the ACEs prevention and treatment program and support ongoing professional development for child-parent psychotherapy services. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025. The bill also includes amendments to existing legal language, such as replacing the requirement for a timeline and cost analysis report with the establishment of the program, and modifying terms related to funding and service delivery to enhance support for children and families affected by ACEs.

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