ND HB1280

Directs legislative management to study during the 2015-16 interim the feasibility and desirability of reorganizing and restructuring the department of human services, with focus on behavioral health services.

Study must analyze restructuring funding and service provision to develop a mental health system of care that encourages treatment team collaboration using health homes or capitated processes for individuals with multiple major health challenges.

Study must evaluate transitioning from direct mental health services provided by regional human service centers to contracting with private entities for integrated, community-based services designed to prevent or minimize inpatient, out-of-home, and out-of-state placements.

Study must include outcome-driven funding using a capitated approach that ties funding to consumer health, well-being, self-sufficiency, and capacity to contribute to society rather than fee-for-service models.

Legislative management shall contract with social science researchers at state universities to measure outcomes and program effectiveness and must report findings, recommendations, and any required implementing legislation to the sixty-fifth legislative assembly.