HF3495 Summary

• Establishes uniform mental health service standards including functional and level of care assessments using standardized instruments (ESCII, CASII, LOCUS) for clients of all ages

• Creates engagement services pilot grant program to provide culturally responsive early interventions preventing civil commitment, with evaluation required using experimental design

• Modifies substance use disorder treatment qualifications to allow "qualified professionals" (including mental health professionals, nurses with training, and clinical trainees) to conduct assessments and treatment planning, not just licensed alcohol and drug counselors

• Establishes Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Education Center in Department of Health to address workforce shortages through career exposure, loan forgiveness expansion, and training for other healthcare professionals

• Appropriates $16.972 million in fiscal year 2025 for engagement services pilots, respite care services, children's residential treatment programs, in-home mental health infrastructure, and other behavioral health initiatives; adjusts general assistance standards effective October 1, 2024