Bill > SJ37

This joint resolution requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim committee to conduct a comprehensive survey of behavioral health services in Montana. The survey will assess the availability and geographic distribution of critical mental health resources, including emergency detention beds, crisis stabilization beds, long-term psychiatric treatment beds, mental health crisis providers, ongoing mental health service providers, and licensed psychiatrists and clinical psychologists. Recognizing the current challenges in accessing mental health care in Montana, particularly the insufficient number of providers to meet residents' needs, the resolution directs the assigned committee to draft legislation aimed at increasing available mental health beds and reducing barriers for behavioral health care providers, especially in rural areas. The committee is required to complete all aspects of the survey, including presentation and review, before September 15, 2026, and report the final results, findings, conclusions, and recommendations to the 70th Legislature, with the ultimate goal of improving mental health service accessibility across the state.