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Appropriators endorse name change to state-operated behavioral health clinics after removing appropriation
Summary
Lawmakers approved the policy change to rename regional human service centers to state-operated behavioral health clinics and removed the bill’s $150,000 appropriation from the measure before recommending it for passage.
Representative Matt Ruby presented Senate Bill 21-13, which would rename regional human service centers as “state-operated behavioral health clinics” and adjust statutory language. Ruby said the $150,000 fiscal request attached in the Senate was intended to pay sign and branding costs across eight regional centers.
Several committee members questioned why the appropriation was not included in the Department of Human Services budget. Committee counsel and department legal staff explained that the appropriation clause was added in the Senate appropriations process; the department did not include the funding in the governor’s executive budget.
Representative Nelson moved to remove section 36 — the appropriation clause — and the committee adopted that amendment by roll call. The amendment removing section 36 passed unanimously 23–0, and the committee then approved a due-pass recommendation for the bill as amended. Representative Dobrovich will carry the bill to the floor.
Why it matters: The statutory name change is intended to reduce confusion about services and to clarify that the facilities provide behavioral health services; removing the appropriation means the policy change can advance without immediate funding tied to the bill.
What’s next: The bill advances without the $150,000 appropriation; appropriators noted the Department of Human Services and grant programs may still seek funding in future budget action.
