- Introduced -

SB 1003 - This act establishes a comprehensive children's mental health service system.

The Department of Mental Health, in collaboration with the Department of Social Services, must establish by rule the definition and criteria for the designation of a community-based service. Community-based services will include intensive home-based services, early intervention services, family support services, respite services, and behavioral assistance services (Section 208.152).

The Department of Social Services must review all child custody cases to determine which cases only need mental health services. Within sixty days, individualized treatment plans must be developed to identify which agencies will supply the appropriate services to the child. The child's family may actively participate in the plan. Plans must be submitted to the court for approval (Section 208.204).

Children in need of only mental health services may be returned to the family's custody. Services shall be provided in the least restrictive environment. The Department of Mental Health shall bill the Department of Social Services for the appropriate moneys to care for these children (Section 208.204).

The Department of Mental Health, in conjunction with all of the Departments represented on the Children's Services Commission, must develop a comprehensive children's mental health service system. This system will include a "Comprehensive System Management Team" to serve children with emotional, behavioral, and substance abuse disorders. The team shall be comprised of family members and representation from the juvenile justice system and the Departments of Health and Senior Services, Social Services, Elementary and Secondary Education, Public Safety, and Mental Health. A children's mental health service system plan must be developed detailing outcomes and progress and shall be submitted to the House, Senate and Governor by December 31, 2004 (Section 630.097).

The standard means test for children in need of mental health services shall be waived to avoid custody transfers to the Children's Division. The Department of Mental Health is responsible for notifying parents that the standard means test may be waived (Section 630.210).

LORIE TOWE