SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    SB 6044

                            AS OF JANUARY 28, 1992

Brief Description:  Modifying population threshold for mental health catchment areas.

SPONSORS: Senator Snyder

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG‑TERM CARE

Staff:  Sarena Seifer (786‑7417)

Hearing Dates: February 4, 1992

BACKGROUND:

In 1989, legislative reform of the state's mental health system encouraged counties to enter into regional systems of care, known as regional support networks (RSNs), which integrate planning, administration, and service delivery for community mental health and involuntary treatment services.  A county or group of counties whose combined population is no less than 40,000 persons may enter into a joint operating agreement to form an RSN.  To date, all counties have formed or have declared an intent to form RSNs, with the exception of Lewis (pop. 59,200), Pacific (pop. 18,100), Pierce (pop. 574,500) and Wahkiakum (pop. 3,500) counties.  These counties have until November 30, 1992 to submit their intentions to be recognized as an RSN.  DSHS must assume the responsibilities of an RSN by July 1, 1995 for areas of the state in which a county has not entered into a joint operating agreement to form an RSN.

SUMMARY:

A county authority or group of county authorities whose combined population is no less than 20,000 may enter into a joint operating agreement to form a regional support network.

Appropriation: none 

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  available