MT SB469

Requires the Department to support a minimum of three service area authorities for mental health services planning and oversight, including at least three full-time community program officer positions and administrative assistance to each board

Mandates annual contracts from the Department to each service area authority to fund administrative assistants, websites, monthly meetings, annual conferences, mini grants, licensed addiction counselor support, community events, prevention, crisis services, and strategic planning

Requires the Department to respond to recommendations or requests from service area authorities within 10 days and provide liaisons from both children's mental health and child and family services divisions

Grants service area authority boards new authority to collaborate with the Montana state hospital, board of visitors, and mental health ombudsman; participate in behavioral health site visits; and review complaints

Requires service area authorities to submit annual reports to the governor, department, and legislature including budget information, recommendations to the state, and surveys from local advisory councils