Big Sky Times

Gov. Greg Gianforte's announcement to Montana's Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission signifies a commitment to mental health and developmental disability care. This move marks a crucial milestone in the state's efforts to improve and revitalize its behavioral health services.

"After decades of previous administrations applying Band-Aids and kicking the can down the road, we're making a generational investment in our behavioral health and developmental disabilities service delivery systems," Gov. Gianforte said in a July 17 press release. “With it, we’ll expand intensive and community-based services so Montanans have access to the care they deserve. We’ll also improve the quality of services at the state hospital in Warm Springs and other state-run health care facilities, better ensuring the safety of patients and providers.” 

According to the press release, Gov. Gianforte announced the appointments to the newly formed Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission. This move marks a crucial milestone in the state's commitment to addressing long-standing issues in mental health and developmental disability care.

The formation of the commission was made possible through the passage of HB0872, an act that revises Montana's behavioral health systems, according to the press release. This legislation establishes the Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission and outlines its duties and role. The commission will be responsible for devising a comprehensive plan to address the challenges faced by the state's behavioral health system.

The newly appointed members of the commission bring a diverse range of expertise and perspectives to the table, according to the press release. Members include Rep. Bob Keenan, a Republican from Bigfork, who has been a vocal advocate for mental health reform in the state. Other members include Charlie Brereton, Director of the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Patrick Maddison, CEO of Flathead Industries, and Janet Lindow, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Rural Behavioral Health Institute. The commission also includes legislators such as Rep. Michele Binkley, Rep. Mike Yakawich, Rep. Dave Fern, Sen. John Esp, and Sen. Ellie Boldman, representing various districts across the state.

The Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission will play a crucial role in shaping Montana's approach to behavioral health services. According to the text of HB072, the commission will hold meetings to gather public input and will present their recommendations to legislative committees. Legislators will have the opportunity to provide input and suggestions before the final recommendations are approved or modified by the Governor.

In addition to its advisory role, the commission will also have the authority to establish rules and regulations to improve the delivery of behavioral health services. The Legislative Finance Committee will be granted specific administrative rule review authority to ensure accountability and transparency.

Appropriations have been provided to support the commission's work, indicating the state's commitment to allocating resources for long-term improvements in the behavioral health system. The commission's efforts aim to address the existing challenges, including accessibility, affordability, and quality of care, while ensuring a sustainable and robust system for future generations.