The bill proposes the establishment of a new chapter within Title 23 of the General Laws, specifically Chapter 100, titled "BEHAVIORAL HEALTH EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND COORDINATION FUND." This chapter defines key terms such as "behavioral health," "eligible organizations," and "eligible services," and sets up a fund within the general fund to be administered by the general treasurer. The fund will consist of sums collected from a taxpayer check-off option provided for in § 44-30-2.12, as well as any grants or donations received. Monies from the fund are to be distributed annually to certified eligible organizations for the purpose of providing education, training, or coordination of behavioral health treatment or service providers. The director of the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities, and hospitals is responsible for reviewing and certifying applications from eligible organizations.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 44-30-2.11 of the General Laws in Chapter 44-30 entitled "Personal Income Tax" to include a provision for a refund deduction for contributions to the substance use and mental health leadership council of RI, with a sunset clause expiring for the tax year ending December 31, 2023. A new section, 44-30-2.12, is added to allow for a similar refund deduction for contributions to the newly established behavioral health education, training, and coordination fund, starting with returns filed for the tax year ending December 31, 2024. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2557  as amended: 44-30-2.11
2557: 44-30-2.11