Senate Bill 7005 and House Bill 7006 propose amendments to Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically within Title 33, Chapter 1, Part 3, to enhance the allocation of mental health services statewide. The bill allows the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to utilize available state funds to contract with additional private service providers to offer inpatient psychiatric services for uninsured individuals. This aims to address the growing need for mental health support in the state.

Additionally, the bill mandates that by December 31, 2024, the department must submit a report to the speakers of both the Senate and the House of Representatives. This report will assess the need for more inpatient psychiatric services in Knoxville, Tennessee, and will include recommendations regarding the potential allocation of state funds for the construction of a state-owned and operated inpatient psychiatric facility in the city. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the urgency of improving mental health services in Tennessee.