Bill > LD1843

This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to establish and operate a peer respite center that provides 24-hour voluntary mental health services for individuals 18 years and older. The bill defines "peer respite" as a community-based care model where individuals experiencing a mental health pre-crisis or crisis can access non-clinical support services from peers who have personal lived experience with mental health challenges, in a low-barrier, comfortable, and safe environment. To support this initiative, the bill allocates $575,000 in the 2025-26 fiscal year and $500,000 in the 2026-27 fiscal year from the General Fund to the Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Behavioral Health, specifically to fund the peer respite services program. By creating this center, the bill aims to provide alternative, community-centered mental health support that relies on the understanding and empathy of peers who have navigated similar mental health experiences.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1843&snum=132