Rhode Island Senate Bill S2894

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/26/22
• Refer: 4/26/22

Caption

Relating To Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities And Hospitals

Impact

If enacted, S2894 will enable the state to improve and expand mental health facilities, addressing the critical need for accessible mental health services, particularly in the wake of increased demand following the COVID-19 pandemic. The establishment of this fund allows for sustainable financial support for community mental health, ensuring that funds are not diverted back to the general fund at the end of the fiscal year but are instead available for ongoing capital projects. This could significantly improve infrastructure related to mental health care across the state and facilitate better service delivery.

Summary

Bill S2894 focuses on enhancing community mental health services by establishing the Community Mental Health Services Revolving Fund. This fund is designed to support capital projects, including the construction and renovation of facilities dedicated to mental health treatment for children and adults. The initial funding for this initiative comes from a significant allocation of $75 million from federal resources associated with the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The ongoing management of these funds will be overseen by the General Treasurer, in collaboration with the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH).

Contention

The bill may face contention related to the management and distribution of the grants from the revolving fund. While many stakeholders are likely to support increased funding for mental health projects, there may be differing opinions on the criteria for grant eligibility and the regulatory framework established by the BHDDH for administering these funds. Additionally, the creation of a legislative advisory group could also spark discussions regarding the balance of influence between policymakers and mental health service providers in determining funding priorities.