MT SJ49

Requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim or statutory committee to conduct a comprehensive review of Montana's behavioral health prevention programs serving youth and families

Study must outline current and projected funding streams (federal, state, local, private), identify system gaps, assess higher education's capacity to train prevention specialists, and determine whether the Legislature or Executive Branch should address deficiencies

Committee will conduct a statewide inventory of primary prevention programs for youth under 18, including school-based, health-based, community-based, faith-based, and mentorship initiatives at state, local, and tribal levels

Requires collaboration with DPHHS, Office of Public Instruction, Montana University System, tribal governments, nonprofits, and faith-based institutions, using data sources like the Youth Risk Behavior Survey and Prevention Needs Assessment

All study aspects must be concluded by September 15, 2026, with final results reported to the 70th Legislature