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Behavioral Health Services act

Appendix A

Statutory Requirements 

The following statutory requirements (WIC Section 5892 (f)(1)(E)) outline the level of funding that will be dedicated to prevention programs and how it must be used:

A minimum of four percent of the total funds allocated pursuant to this subdivision shall be distributed to the State Department of Public Health for this purpose. Of these funds, at least 51 percent shall be used for programs serving populations who are 25 years of age or younger. The State Department of Public Health shall consult with the State Department of Health Care programs and the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission to ensure the provision of these programs.

  1. Population-based prevention programs are activities designed to reduce the prevalence of mental health and substance use disorders and resulting conditions.

  2. Population-based prevention programs shall incorporate evidence-based promising or community-defined evidence practices and meet one or more of the following conditions:

    1. Target the entire population of the state, county, or particular community to reduce the risk of individuals developing a mental health or substance use disorder.

    2. Target specific populations at elevated risk for a mental health, substance misuse, or substance use disorder.

    3. Reduce stigma associated with seeking help for mental health challenges and substance use disorders.

    4. Target populations disproportionately impacted by systemic racism and discrimination.

    5. Prevent suicide, self-harm, or overdose.

  3. Population-based prevention programs may be implemented statewide or in community settings.

  4. Population-based prevention programs shall not include the provision of early intervention, diagnostic, and treatment for individuals.

  5. Populationā€‹ā€‹-based prevention programs shall be provided on a schoolwide or classroom basis and may be provided by a community-based organization off campus or on school grounds.

  6. School-based prevention supports and programs shall be provided at a school site or arranged for by a school on a schoolwide or classroom basis and shall not provide services and supports for individuals. These supports and programs may include, but are not limited to:

    1. School-based health centers, student wellness centers, or student well-being centers.

    2. Activities, including, but not limited to, group coaching and consultation, designed to prevent substance misuse, increase mindfulness, self-regulation, development of protective factors, calming strategies, and communication skills.

    3. Integrated or embedded school-based programs designed to reduce stigma associated with seeking help for mental health challenges and substance use disorders.

    4. Student mental health first aid programs designed to identify and prevent suicide or overdose.

    5. Integrated training and systems of support for teachers and school administrators designed to mitigate suspension and expulsion practices and assist with classroom management.

  7. Early childhood population-based prevention programs for children 0 to 5 years of age, inclusive, shall be provided in a range of settings.

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