SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – As lawmakers work to address crime and homelessness this session, they’re turning to behavioral health resources as a way to do that.
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On Tuesday, the Senate Finance Committee weighed a trio of bipartisan bills that work together to address behavioral health across the state in an impactful and lasting way. “For the first time in state history we will have all three branches accountable to the behavioral health system,” said Adrian Avila, Chief of Staff for the Senate Finance Committee.
He said Senate Bill 3 serves as the “guardrails” for the behavioral health system while helping ensure oversight. The bill requires regional plans to be developed to treat mental illness and addiction.
“You can’t have a one solution fits all to address behavioral health in the state. You need to customize it to the needs of that region,” said Avila to lawmakers. This bill helps bring a grassroots approach and identify funding priorities based on unique community needs.
Senate Bill 2 breaks down the funding infrastructure, appropriating $140 million to the court system and other state agencies for behavioral health programs. Lastly, Senate Bill 1 creates a behavioral health trust fund for the state similar to the state’s trust funds for higher education and early childhood care. “Ensure that regardless of whether we’re in the boom or bust cycle of oil and gas, things will continue to be funded,” said Avila.
The trust fund has a $1 billion target with 5% or $50 million being used yearly to fund programs across the state. On Tuesday, some lawmakers brought up needing more details on accountability. One lawmaker even proposed the idea of an audit to make sure the new behavioral health system is implemented properly.