North Dakota Senate Bill SB2113

North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/25
• Refer: 1/7/25
• Report Pass: 1/16/25
• Refer: 1/20/25
• Refer: 1/21/25
• Report Pass: 1/23/25
• Refer: 1/24/25
• Report Pass: 1/30/25
• Refer: 1/31/25
• Report Pass: 2/12/25
• Engrossed: 2/17/25
• Refer: 2/18/25
• Report Pass: 3/19/25
• Refer: 3/19/25
• Report Pass: 3/28/25
• Enrolled: 5/1/25
• Passed: 5/2/25

Caption

The powers and duties of the department of health and human services, treatment hearing timelines, and membership of the cross-disability advisory council; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide an expiration date.

Impact

The bill is set to significantly impact state laws governing human services, especially in the area of behavioral health. The amendments will streamline the operations of the Department of Health and Human Services and enhance their accountability in managing services. By establishing voucher systems for underserved areas, the bill aims to improve service delivery and ensure that individuals suffering from substance use disorders have improved access to treatment. This would also mean that previously underfunded or neglected areas of the state may receive increased attention and resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 2113 seeks to amend various sections of the North Dakota Century Code related to the Department of Health and Human Services. It includes provisions for the establishment of a behavioral health bed management system, which aims to improve the utilization of available behavioral health beds across state-operated clinics. Additionally, the bill establishes a voucher system to address underserved areas in the state, enabling outpatient and community-based substance use treatment services. This new structure aims to enhance the state’s capacity to address behavioral health issues effectively and ensure that residents have access to necessary services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 2113 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among proponents who see it as a critical step towards improving behavioral health services in North Dakota. Stakeholders in the healthcare community have expressed optimism about the bill's potential to reduce barriers to treatment and increase support for individuals facing substance use challenges. However, some advocates have raised concerns about the execution of the voucher system and whether it will adequately meet the needs of the most vulnerable populations.

Contention

One notable point of contention pertains to the details of how the voucher system will be implemented and monitored. While supporters assert that it will provide necessary resources to underserved regions, critics warn that without proper oversight, such systems could lead to disparities in the quality of care provided. There are also concerns regarding the center's capacity to handle the expected increase in service demand as a result of these changes, raising questions about funding levels and operational support necessary for successful implementation.