Wisconsin Senate Bill SB277

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/15/23
• Refer: 5/15/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Mental health consultation program and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The proposed legislation is expected to significantly reshape the state's approach to mental health care delivery. By centralizing mental health consultation services, the bill aims to enhance resource efficiency and improve the quality of care through unified administration. It also increases funding for mental health consultation programs, exemplifying a legislative commitment to funding mental health services adequately. The shift may also alleviate the administrative burden on smaller institutions by providing them the opportunity to collaborate with a centralized program, thereby improving care coordination for clients.

Summary

Senate Bill 277 seeks to establish a comprehensive mental health consultation program in Wisconsin by repealing existing provisions specific to child psychiatry consultation programs and consolidating them into one unified program. The bill incorporates a set of mental health consultation services that address various demographics, including perinatal, adult, and geriatric populations, among others. Acknowledging the growing need for mental health support, this bill reflects an effort to expand access and provide coherent services to meet diverse mental health needs across the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB277 may arise around the allocation of funding and the potential impacts on existing programs that provided niche services, such as addiction medicine. Critics may be concerned that the consolidation could lead to gaps in specialized care, particularly in areas where specialized treatment is crucial. Additionally, ensuring that the selected organization administering the mental health consultation program maintains high standards and qualifications will also be a critical topic of discussion as the bill progresses through legislative scrutiny.