Message From BHA Regarding JBBS/MAT Programs
JBBS - CDHS, CDHS
Good afternoon,
BHA has heard concerns from jails that JBBS funding is going away. We want to make it very clear that BHA does not plan to discontinue funding for JBBS for FY 2025, or in the near future. We support the JBBS programs and believe they are integral to the behavioral health continuum. Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) continues to be an allowable use for JBBS funding.
However, MAT funding specific to HB 22-1326 will be fully exhausted after June 30, 2024, and BHA expects all jails to have spent this money by that date. We also want to remind jails that the legislation stated that MAT funds specific to HB22-1326 would not be renewed, and BHA didn’t create this requirement. These funds were a result of the one-time American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Coronavirus-19 stimulus funds.
With that said, we do understand your concerns regarding the non-renewal of funding and we want to ensure this valuable part of JBBS programming continues in the county jails. To address the immediate gap in funding, BHA is exploring various solutions, including:
Exploring grant funding opportunities to bridge the funding gap for MAT services.
Collaborating with state partners to identify ways to leverage existing funding streams to sustain MAT programs.
Supporting initiatives that enable MAT services for Medicaid-eligible individuals up to 90 days before their release. (likely effective FY27 ) /other related legislation to consider HB24-1045
Promoting the Attorney General’s MAT in Jail and Connections to the Community Recognition Award. The request for nominations closes May 15, 2024 and is for a one-time $50,000 grant to continue this important work.
Engaging with the Attorney General to advocate for the prioritization of MAT in jails.
Jails are encouraged to continue collaborating with their JBBS managers and other sources to support their efforts to find alternate streams of funding. See ways jails can address the immediate gap in funding below:
Explore grant funding opportunities to bridge the funding gap for MAT services.
Work closely with your JBBS Manager to determine how to best support your MAT needs with your FY25 budget while options are being explored.
We appreciate the partnership with jails to continue providing these vital behavioral health services to justice-involved individuals.
Please contact your JBBS program manager with any concerns regarding this topic. We are here to support you and clarify information.
Sincerely,
Erin Wester, MS, MHA, LMFT
Deputy Commissioner
Systems and Programs