New Era of Mental Health Reform in Montana: Allocating $300 Million for Improved Services

The state of Montana is currently reviewing proposed recommendations for its mental and behavioral health system. The Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission has $300 million available to allocate towards initiatives aimed at improving the state’s behavioral health services.

During a recent meeting, lawmakers, state officials, and private health care workers discussed various ideas on how best to utilize the funding. Some of the proposals included reinvesting in state case management services, expanding crisis response and stabilization services, and increasing funding for school-based behavioral health programs.

The commission and state health officials will now work together over the next few months to refine a report outlining specific funding proposals. By July 1st, they aim to have a clear plan in place for how the $300 million will be spent. Ultimately, Governor Greg Gianforte will have the final say on whether to move forward with the commission’s recommendations or not.