NC H982

Creates a pilot program for religious institutions in Vance County and Granville County to help respond to individuals with mental health or substance use service needs, administered by the Department of Health and Human Services Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services.

Establishes three annual designation levels (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) for participating religious institutions based on training, support groups, forums, and resource requirements specific to mental health and substance use awareness.

Requires participating religious institutions to update their websites to reflect program participation, designate personnel capable of referring individuals to mental health services, and complete essential mental health training.

Mandates the Division of MH/DD/SUS to submit annual reports by March 1 to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Health and Human Services detailing implementation steps, applications received and granted, individuals served, and expansion recommendations.

Appropriates $10,000 from the General Fund effective July 1, 2024, which the Division may allocate to approved religious institutions based on their designation level to offset program participation costs.