Bill > HJ75

This joint resolution requests the Legislative Council to direct an interim committee or staff to conduct a comprehensive study of the Montana State Hospital, focusing on improving patient care and community transitions. The study aims to address several key issues, including refurbishing the hospital's campus to prioritize forensic and serious civil commitments, increasing community support programs to help patients comply with treatment plans, developing community commitment programs, exploring alternatives to court-ordered fitness evaluations, and projecting the hospital's short-term and long-term bed space needs while comparing the costs of hospital expansion versus community-based alternatives. The resolution stems from concerns that the hospital currently accepts patients with Alzheimer's, dementia, or traumatic brain injury who do not pose significant risks, and follows previous legislative efforts to prevent inappropriate commitments. The study must be completed before September 15, 2026, with final results to be reported to the 70th Legislature, ensuring ongoing legislative oversight and support for improving mental health services in Montana.

Health and Social Services

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC4342