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DHHS: state diversion funding, community restoration program to move forward; RFQ and steering committee expected
Summary
DHHS staff told the Behavioral Health Board that state funding will continue for the county's diversion pilot and that the county will issue an RFQ for an eight‑bed community‑based restoration program; staff also announced an SB 43 steering committee to prepare for January 2026 implementation.
Department of Health and Human Services staff told the board that two related state funding opportunities are advancing.
1) State hospital diversion: staff said the Department of State Hospitals has signaled ongoing funding to make the county's diversion pilot permanent and that the county is in contracting negotiations for a multiyear diversion contract.
2) Community‑based restoration: staff described a related program, community‑based restoration, that would provide court‑ordered restoration services in a community setting (not a locked facility). They said the program model includes housing and wraparound supports, and staff said county planners expect to issue a request for qualifications (RFQ) for community organizations to operate the program; staff noted an initial planning estimate of serving eight individuals annually in that model.
Implementation and legal context: DHHS staff also said they are launching a steering committee to prepare for implementation of Senate Bill 43 (SB 43), which expands the scope of grave disability criteria for certain substance use conditions and takes effect in January 2026. Staff said the county is convening partners to develop local responses and that an initial steering committee invitation would be sent.
Law enforcement coordination: staff reported ongoing meetings with local law enforcement about field response protocols following recent appellate rulings cited in the meeting; they emphasized continued collaboration with crisis intervention teams (CIT) and acknowledged operational caution and staff safety concerns while partnerships continue.
Next steps: staff said they will finalize contracting with the state hospital on diversion, release the RFQ for community‑based restoration services, and convene the SB 43 steering committee. No procurement awards or new contract vendors were announced at the meeting; staff said procurement processes will follow the RFQ timeline.
