North Dakota House Bill HB1337

North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25
• Report Pass: 1/30/25
• Refer: 1/31/25
• Report DNP: 2/17/25

Caption

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of health and human services for mental health services for incarcerated individuals; and to provide for a report.

Impact

The legislation is designed to improve the overall mental health care landscape within the state’s correctional facilities by enabling counties to access funding for necessary treatment services. The bills articulate the need for these services and establish mechanisms for oversight, requiring counties to report on their progress and the effectiveness of the programs. This could lead to a significant shift in how mental health and substance use disorders are managed in jails and prisons, potentially decreasing recidivism rates and addressing critical public health issues.

Summary

House Bill 1337 aims to allocate $10 million from the state's general fund to the Department of Health and Human Services for grants aimed at enhancing mental health services and substance use disorder treatment for incarcerated individuals. This financial appropriation is intended to better address the mental health needs of individuals within the correctional system, recognizing that many inmates face significant psychological and substance-related challenges. This bill would run for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, and continuing through June 30, 2027, providing funding and resources for counties to develop effective treatment programs.

Sentiment

Discussion around HB 1337 has been largely supportive, with many legislators acknowledging the importance of addressing mental health in correctional settings. Advocates argue that the bill represents a proactive step toward rehabilitating incarcerated individuals rather than merely punishing them. However, there are concerns about the effectiveness of the program and whether the funding would be sufficient to cover the breadth of services needed. The general sentiment among supporters leans toward viewing enhanced treatment as a necessary step for a more equitable justice system.

Contention

Although the bill is well-received by mental health advocates, some lawmakers remain skeptical regarding the allocation of funds and the execution of the programs proposed. There are debates over how to ensure accountability and efficacy in spending, as well as discussions concerning the balance of resources devoted to treatment versus punishment within the penal system. These points of contention suggest a need for careful monitoring of outcomes and adjustments as necessary to make the program successful.