Committee advances funding to open Soteria Las Cruces residential program

Summary

HB87, to continue funding and operational support for Soteria Las Cruces — a residential care model for early psychosis and serious mental illness — received a due pass after supporters said the house is nearly ready, Medicaid approval is pending and the program can be more cost-effective than hospitalization.

Representative Ferrari and Kiva Centers presented HB87 to continue funding for the Soteria Las Cruces residential treatment model. Sponsors said prior appropriations of $1.5 million have been partially expended (about $900,000) to ready a five‑bed home; they sought the remainder (amendable in committee to a smaller amount) so the program can open and serve clients while Medicaid waiver approvals finalize.

Kiva Centers and Soteria representatives described the Soteria model as voluntary, community-based residential care for people in early episodes of psychosis, with evidence suggesting cost savings versus inpatient psychiatric hospitalization. Witnesses cited per-person daily cost estimates far lower than hospital stays and referenced research showing clinical benefits in past Soteria studies. Committee members asked about long-term funding and statewide access; sponsors noted the program will accept referrals statewide and serve as a model for future centers.

Committee moved a due pass with an amendment plan to reduce the fiscal ask before appropriations; the recorded roll call was 8–2 in favor.