Resolve, Directing the Department of Health and Human Services To Seek Federal Funding To Serve Immigrant and Refugee Populations in Need of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment
Emergency preamble. Whereas, acts and resolves of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and
Whereas, immigrants and refugees who have relocated to Maine are at considerable risk for mental illness and substance abuse; and
Whereas, Maine's mental health system lacks the cultural diversity necessary to adequately respond to the needs of Maine's immigrant and refugee communities; and
Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it
Sec. 1. Department of Health and Human Services to seek federal funding to serve immigrant and refugee populations in need of mental health and substance abuse treatment. Resolved: That the Department of Health and Human Services shall seek funding from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in order to provide substance abuse and mental health treatment programs for immigrant or refugee persons residing in the State. If a federal grant is received for this purpose, the department may use the funding for development and operation of one or more programs on a statewide basis to serve immigrant or refugee persons who are in need of substance abuse or mental health treatment services in accordance with any federal restrictions or conditions placed upon the receipt of the funding; and be it further
Sec. 2. Reporting date established. Resolved: That, by November 15, 2005, the Department of Health and Human Services shall report to the Joint Standing Committee on Health and Human Services and the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs. The report is not limited to but must address:
1. The progress the department has made in securing the federal funding identified in section 1 of this resolve;
2. If funds have been received, the progress the department has made in developing the programs authorized in section 1 of this resolve;
3. The staff development and training efforts involved with the programs;
4. The location or locations of the programs; and
5. The number of immigrant or refugee persons served to date.
Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this resolve takes effect when approved.
Effective May 13, 2005.
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