summary
Introduced
02/06/2026
02/06/2026
In Committee
02/06/2026
02/06/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Creates the Community Mental Health Workforce Paid Internship Act. Requires the Department of Human Services to establish the Community Mental Health Workforce Paid Internship Program to provide funding to eligible entities to support paid internships for non-clinical staff positions within a community mental health organization. Requires the Department to develop the necessary application procedures and standards for acceptance for eligible entities, including, but not limited to, consideration of (1) workforce shortages; (2) service to underserved or rural communities; (3) commitment to training, supervision, and mentorship of interns; and (4) efforts to promote workforce development. Sets forth internship requirements and the permissible uses for funds awarded under the program. Requires eligible entities to submit yearly reports to the Department outlining (1) number of interns hired; (2) duration of internships; (3) positions of internships; and (4) employment outcomes, such as retention, following internship. Requires the Department to submit a report, every 2 years, to the General Assembly outlining the program's outcomes and impact. Grants the Department rulemaking authority. Provides that the General Assembly may appropriate funds for the purposes of the Act. Effective July 1, 2026.
AI Summary
This bill, titled the Community Mental Health Workforce Paid Internship Act, establishes a program within the Department of Human Services (DHS) to address shortages in non-clinical staff, such as those in human resources, finance, and information technology, who are crucial for the effective operation of community mental health organizations. The program will provide funding to eligible organizations, which are defined as community mental health settings approved by DHS, to support paid internships for individuals entering or advancing in these non-clinical roles. The DHS will set application standards for these organizations, prioritizing those serving underserved areas, experiencing workforce shortages, and demonstrating a commitment to training and mentorship. Internships must be paid at least minimum wage, include structured training, last between 10 weeks and one year, and focus on skill development. Funds can be used for intern wages, stipends, supervision, and training costs. Participating organizations must report annually on intern hiring, duration, positions, and employment outcomes, while the DHS will report on the program's overall impact to the General Assembly every two years. The DHS is granted authority to create necessary rules, and the General Assembly may appropriate funds for the program, which is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Referred to Assignments (on 02/06/2026)
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