NC H788

Appropriates $600,000 in nonrecurring funds to Promise Resource Network for establishment of four peer-run wellness centers addressing mental health crisis prevention and post-crisis response, located in two urban and two rural areas of North Carolina.

Requires Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services to report by September 1, 2022 on the status of the four wellness centers, including operational timeline and service capacity estimates.

Establishes the position of Mental Health Recovery Policy Chief within the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services, requiring the holder to be certified as a peer support specialist.

Requires the Mental Health Recovery Policy Chief to ensure recovery values drive state policy and to engage individuals with lived mental health recovery experience to inform the division.

Mandates publication of a biennial NC Mental Health Recovery and Resiliency Agenda by January 31 of each odd calendar year, setting department objectives for recovery outcomes and tracking progress on prior agenda objectives.

Appropriates $100,000 in recurring funds for fiscal years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 to fund the Mental Health Recovery Policy Chief position salary and benefits.

Effective date: July 1, 2021.