Virginia House Bill HB2185

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23
• Report Pass: 1/24/23
• Refer: 1/26/23
• Report Pass: 1/27/23
• Engrossed: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/3/23
• Report Pass: 2/9/23
• Engrossed: 2/13/23
• Engrossed: 2/15/23
• Enrolled: 2/20/23
• Chaptered: 4/12/23

Caption

Community services boards and behavioral health authorities; provisions of performance contracts.

Impact

The bill mandates that community services boards must provide detailed service, cost, and revenue data to the Department of Behavioral Health. Failure to achieve substantial compliance with performance contracts can lead to penalties, including the withholding of funds. This shift intends to enforce accountability and ensure that state resources are used effectively within community services.

Summary

House Bill 2185 focuses on the operational structure and funding mechanisms for community services boards and behavioral health authorities in Virginia. The bill outlines criteria that these entities must meet in order to receive state-controlled funds for mental health, developmental, or substance abuse services. Specifically, it emphasizes the importance of having performance contracts approved by local governing bodies and compliance with standardized accounting practices.

Sentiment

There exists a mixed sentiment around HB 2185 with supporters arguing it provides essential oversight and improves service quality within mental health systems. However, some stakeholders raise concerns that strict compliance measures could impede the ability of community services boards to adapt and respond to the needs of their local populations, particularly if they lose funding due to non-compliance.

Contention

Noteworthy contention arises around the enforcement mechanisms included in the bill. Critics argue that the powers given to the Department to enforce contracts could potentially lead to overreach and diminish the autonomy of local boards. Additionally, the stipulation that funding contracts automatically renew if not expressly disapproved by local governments raises concerns about proactive governance and accountability to constituents.