NC H1072

Increases funding for local inpatient psychiatric beds from $29.1 million to $39.1 million for fiscal year 2012-2013, with the $29.1 million level maintained for 2011-2012.

Authorizes the Department of Health and Human Services to manage these psychiatric beds through contracts with Local Management Entities (LMEs) and community hospitals, with funds held in a statewide reserve rather than allocated directly to LMEs.

Requires LMEs to submit claims within 15 working days and hospitals to be paid within 30 working days; allows the Department to reassign bed management to another LME or pay hospitals directly if performance standards are not met.

Appropriates $2 million from the General Fund for START (Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Respite, Treatment Team) crisis services for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and behavioral health needs statewide.

Takes effect July 1, 2012.