The North Dakota House Appropriations Committee convened on February 17, 2025, to discuss a proposed $10 million funding initiative aimed at enhancing mental health services and substance use disorder (SUD) treatment in county jails. The meeting highlighted a successful pilot program from Walsh County, which utilized leftover American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to serve 294 participants over three years, demonstrating positive outcomes in reducing recidivism.

Chairman Ruby opened the session by emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health and substance use issues at the county level to prevent individuals from progressing to state penitentiaries, where housing costs exceed $84,000 annually per inmate. The committee expressed a strong belief that early intervention could significantly impact long-term outcomes for individuals in the justice system.

The discussion included inquiries about the duration of treatment provided in Walsh County's pilot program, with representatives seeking clarity on the specifics of the services offered. It was noted that while the SUD voucher program exists for addiction services, there remains a gap in mental health therapy coverage for incarcerated individuals. Pam Segnus, Executive Director of Behavioral Health with Health and Human Services, confirmed that while some services are currently being provided through private providers and telehealth partnerships, comprehensive mental health therapy remains limited.

The committee debated whether the proposed funding should be allocated equally among counties or based on specific regional needs. Segnus suggested that a more targeted approach could ensure that funds are directed to areas with the highest demand for services. The conversation also touched on the potential overlap with existing programs, such as the "Free Through Recovery" initiative, which focuses on care coordination.

Concerns were raised about the fragmented nature of mental health services across the state, with representatives advocating for a more integrated system that could effectively address the needs of individuals in jails. The committee acknowledged the necessity of private providers in filling service gaps but also recognized the challenges posed by limited reimbursement options for mental health services in correctional settings.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed a commitment to exploring sustainable solutions for mental health services in jails, emphasizing the need for ongoing discussions about the best methods to implement and fund these critical services. The next steps will involve further analysis of the proposed funding structure and its potential impact on the state's behavioral health landscape.