AZ HB2654

Requires the Department of Child Safety to submit referrals to regional behavioral health authorities within 24 hours when a child enters out-of-home placement, with assessments dispatched within 72 hours (or 2 hours if immediate needs exist).

Establishes timelines for behavioral health services including initial evaluation within 7 calendar days and first appointment within 21 calendar days after evaluation.

Mandates assignment of therapists with at least a master's degree and specialized training for children needing behavioral health services, with consideration of drug-free treatment options except for trauma-specific counseling.

Allows children living within 15 miles of county borders or moved across counties due to placement to receive services from regional behavioral health authorities in either county, and offers in-home services when children live more than 45 miles from nearest clinic.

Permits children leaving Department custody to continue receiving health care services for 6 months until their eligibility is determined under Arizona's health care cost containment system.