MT SJ37

Legislative Council requested to designate an interim committee to survey the number and geographic distribution of behavioral health resources, including emergency detention beds, crisis stabilization beds, long-term psychiatric treatment beds, and mental health providers across Montana

Survey must assess the availability of psychiatrists and clinical psychologists licensed in the state, as well as providers for crisis intervention and ongoing mental health services

Assigned committee required to draft legislation to increase bed capacity for emergency detention, involuntary civil commitments, crisis stabilization, and long-term voluntary psychiatric treatment for adolescents and adults

Committee must also draft legislation to reduce barriers preventing behavioral health care providers from serving Montanans, with emphasis on rural areas

Survey and all related requirements must be completed by September 15, 2026, with final results reported to the 70th Legislature