Connecticut Senate Bill SB00322

Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/14
• Refer: 2/27/14
• Report Pass: 3/20/14
• Refer: 3/31/14
• Report Pass: 4/7/14
• Refer: 4/17/14
• Report Pass: 4/22/14
• Engrossed: 5/6/14
• Report Pass: 5/6/14
• Chaptered: 5/19/14
• Enrolled: 5/23/14
• Passed: 6/6/14

Caption

An Act Connecting The Public To Behavioral Health Care Services.

Impact

The implementation of SB 00322 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regulating healthcare services. By creating a dedicated resource for behavioral health information, the bill seeks to improve statewide coordination of mental health services and ensure that residents receive timely care. It requires the Office of the Healthcare Advocate to report on the effectiveness of the service, which could lead to further legislative adjustments based on the discovered needs and gaps in current services. Consequently, this may also alter existing regulations pertaining to health care coverage and provider accountability across the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 00322, titled 'An Act Connecting The Public To Behavioral Health Care Services', aims to enhance access to mental health services by establishing a comprehensive information and referral service. This initiative is intended to facilitate residents' connections to behavioral health care providers, ensuring that individuals seeking help can easily find the necessary resources. The bill mandates collaboration with various stakeholders, including state agencies and community organizations, to identify barriers to accessing behavioral health care and to develop solutions that address these gaps effectively.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 00322 appears to be positive, as it addresses a critical issue in public health—access to mental health services. Supporters emphasize the importance of increasing visibility and reducing barriers for individuals seeking behavioral health care. They view the establishment of a referral service as a progressive step towards improving public health and reducing stigma around mental health issues. However, discussions may also raise concerns regarding the effectiveness of state-run initiatives and the adequacy of support for the infrastructure necessary for successful implementation.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions around SB 00322 may include debates on funding for the proposed initiatives, the potential administrative burden placed on state agencies, and the scope of collaboration with various stakeholders. Critics could voice concerns about whether the measures outlined in the bill are sufficient to truly bridge the gap in behavioral health services or if they merely serve as a stop-gap measure that may not sustain in the long term. The success of the bill may be contingent upon adequate funding and ongoing political support to ensure that the objectives are met effectively.