About

Programs

Events

Advocacy

News

The Montana Legislature is Underway and We Need Your Help

Written by

Written by

Matt Kuntz

Matt Kuntz

Posted on

Posted on

Jan 17, 2025

Jan 17, 2025

Category

Category

Advocacy

Advocacy

The Montana Legislative session is in full swing.  We did a lot of advocacy this week around funding for Montana State Hospital and broad Medicaid services for mental health and substance abuse.

 

There are two key hearings next week in the Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B). The two hearings are on Tuesday (21st) and Wednesday (22nd). They will run from 8:00 am to noon. Public comment has typically begun at 11:30 am and run until noon. Typically people have been given about three minutes a piece, but that depends on how many people are there.

 

The hearing is in Room 102 of the Capitol. We'd love to have people attend in person to testify if possible.  If that's not possible, you can sign up to testify online. Here is a link to do it at.  https://www.legmt.gov/participate/  The rules are described on the web page. Generally plan on signing up the day before.  You can also use that same link to send a written message to the Committee. Remember to select Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B).

 

If possible in your testimony and messages, please consider asking the Committee "To Fund NAMI Montana's Consistent Six."  This is the list of mental health service needs that were identified by both the Legislature in the last Interim and the 872 Commission in its analysis.  

  • Expand mental health crisis beds

  • Stabilize mental health care financing through Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers (CCBHCs)

  • Expand forensic mental health evaluations

  • Strengthen school-based mental health care

  • Use acuity-based payments to help Montana mental health care clinicians serve youth at-risk of being sent out of state

  • Expand group homes


 You can testify in favor of the "Consistent Six" on both Tuesday and Wednesday. 

If you can't make the Hearings and don't like sending messages online, you can leave a really quick message with the Legislative Call Center

 

"I would like to leave a message for Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B). My name is __________ and I am from __________.  I would like the Committee to know that mental health is a critical priority and to please fund NAMI Montana's Consistent Six services in this Legislative Session."

 

They may ask you if you are in support of the Budget Bill. Please say Yes to that question, if they ask (that supports all of the mental health and substance abuse funding).  You can begin leaving those phone messages this afternoon and all next week - during work hours.

 

Thanks so much for your help!  Have a great weekend!

 

Matt Kuntz

 

Executive Director

NAMI Montana

 

The Montana Legislative session is in full swing.  We did a lot of advocacy this week around funding for Montana State Hospital and broad Medicaid services for mental health and substance abuse.

 

There are two key hearings next week in the Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B). The two hearings are on Tuesday (21st) and Wednesday (22nd). They will run from 8:00 am to noon. Public comment has typically begun at 11:30 am and run until noon. Typically people have been given about three minutes a piece, but that depends on how many people are there.

 

The hearing is in Room 102 of the Capitol. We'd love to have people attend in person to testify if possible.  If that's not possible, you can sign up to testify online. Here is a link to do it at.  https://www.legmt.gov/participate/  The rules are described on the web page. Generally plan on signing up the day before.  You can also use that same link to send a written message to the Committee. Remember to select Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B).

 

If possible in your testimony and messages, please consider asking the Committee "To Fund NAMI Montana's Consistent Six."  This is the list of mental health service needs that were identified by both the Legislature in the last Interim and the 872 Commission in its analysis.  

  • Expand mental health crisis beds

  • Stabilize mental health care financing through Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers (CCBHCs)

  • Expand forensic mental health evaluations

  • Strengthen school-based mental health care

  • Use acuity-based payments to help Montana mental health care clinicians serve youth at-risk of being sent out of state

  • Expand group homes


 You can testify in favor of the "Consistent Six" on both Tuesday and Wednesday. 

If you can't make the Hearings and don't like sending messages online, you can leave a really quick message with the Legislative Call Center

 

"I would like to leave a message for Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B). My name is __________ and I am from __________.  I would like the Committee to know that mental health is a critical priority and to please fund NAMI Montana's Consistent Six services in this Legislative Session."

 

They may ask you if you are in support of the Budget Bill. Please say Yes to that question, if they ask (that supports all of the mental health and substance abuse funding).  You can begin leaving those phone messages this afternoon and all next week - during work hours.

 

Thanks so much for your help!  Have a great weekend!

 

Matt Kuntz

 

Executive Director

NAMI Montana

 

The Montana Legislative session is in full swing.  We did a lot of advocacy this week around funding for Montana State Hospital and broad Medicaid services for mental health and substance abuse.

 

There are two key hearings next week in the Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B). The two hearings are on Tuesday (21st) and Wednesday (22nd). They will run from 8:00 am to noon. Public comment has typically begun at 11:30 am and run until noon. Typically people have been given about three minutes a piece, but that depends on how many people are there.

 

The hearing is in Room 102 of the Capitol. We'd love to have people attend in person to testify if possible.  If that's not possible, you can sign up to testify online. Here is a link to do it at.  https://www.legmt.gov/participate/  The rules are described on the web page. Generally plan on signing up the day before.  You can also use that same link to send a written message to the Committee. Remember to select Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B).

 

If possible in your testimony and messages, please consider asking the Committee "To Fund NAMI Montana's Consistent Six."  This is the list of mental health service needs that were identified by both the Legislature in the last Interim and the 872 Commission in its analysis.  

  • Expand mental health crisis beds

  • Stabilize mental health care financing through Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers (CCBHCs)

  • Expand forensic mental health evaluations

  • Strengthen school-based mental health care

  • Use acuity-based payments to help Montana mental health care clinicians serve youth at-risk of being sent out of state

  • Expand group homes


 You can testify in favor of the "Consistent Six" on both Tuesday and Wednesday. 

If you can't make the Hearings and don't like sending messages online, you can leave a really quick message with the Legislative Call Center

 

"I would like to leave a message for Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B). My name is __________ and I am from __________.  I would like the Committee to know that mental health is a critical priority and to please fund NAMI Montana's Consistent Six services in this Legislative Session."

 

They may ask you if you are in support of the Budget Bill. Please say Yes to that question, if they ask (that supports all of the mental health and substance abuse funding).  You can begin leaving those phone messages this afternoon and all next week - during work hours.

 

Thanks so much for your help!  Have a great weekend!

 

Matt Kuntz

 

Executive Director

NAMI Montana

 

The Montana Legislative session is in full swing.  We did a lot of advocacy this week around funding for Montana State Hospital and broad Medicaid services for mental health and substance abuse.

 

There are two key hearings next week in the Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B). The two hearings are on Tuesday (21st) and Wednesday (22nd). They will run from 8:00 am to noon. Public comment has typically begun at 11:30 am and run until noon. Typically people have been given about three minutes a piece, but that depends on how many people are there.

 

The hearing is in Room 102 of the Capitol. We'd love to have people attend in person to testify if possible.  If that's not possible, you can sign up to testify online. Here is a link to do it at.  https://www.legmt.gov/participate/  The rules are described on the web page. Generally plan on signing up the day before.  You can also use that same link to send a written message to the Committee. Remember to select Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B).

 

If possible in your testimony and messages, please consider asking the Committee "To Fund NAMI Montana's Consistent Six."  This is the list of mental health service needs that were identified by both the Legislature in the last Interim and the 872 Commission in its analysis.  

  • Expand mental health crisis beds

  • Stabilize mental health care financing through Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers (CCBHCs)

  • Expand forensic mental health evaluations

  • Strengthen school-based mental health care

  • Use acuity-based payments to help Montana mental health care clinicians serve youth at-risk of being sent out of state

  • Expand group homes


 You can testify in favor of the "Consistent Six" on both Tuesday and Wednesday. 

If you can't make the Hearings and don't like sending messages online, you can leave a really quick message with the Legislative Call Center

 

"I would like to leave a message for Joint Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services (Section B). My name is __________ and I am from __________.  I would like the Committee to know that mental health is a critical priority and to please fund NAMI Montana's Consistent Six services in this Legislative Session."

 

They may ask you if you are in support of the Budget Bill. Please say Yes to that question, if they ask (that supports all of the mental health and substance abuse funding).  You can begin leaving those phone messages this afternoon and all next week - during work hours.

 

Thanks so much for your help!  Have a great weekend!

 

Matt Kuntz

 

Executive Director

NAMI Montana

 

Recommended News

Diane Carlson Evans at Vietnam Women's Memorial

Veterans Advocacy

Apr 19, 2024

Senator Tester Nominates Diane Carlson Evans for Presidential Medal of Freedom

NAMI Montana commends Senator Jon Tester for nominating Diane Carlson Evans for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her impactful advocacy for Montana veterans. Diane is celebrated for her key role in establishing the Vietnam Women's Memorial, honoring the service of U.S. women in the Vietnam War. Additionally, she significantly aided NAMI Montana's federal veterans advocacy, particularly influencing policies on mental health screening for service members. Diane also helped establish a Vet Center in Helena, enhancing support for combat veterans. NAMI Montana encourages public support for Diane’s nomination, highlighting her national influence on veterans' advocacy.

Trans-Montana Fundraiser

Feb 9, 2024

Celebrating a Decade of Dedication: Trans-Montana's Impact on Youth and Veterans Mental Health

The TransMontana charity snowmobile ride, a cornerstone event organized by the Montana Snowmobile Association for NAMI Montana's veteran and youth mental health initiatives, marked its tenth year with resilience. Despite the cancellation of the ride due to insufficient snow, the community's spirit remained undeterred. A banquet in Butte replaced the ride, celebrating the enduring support and commitment of the riders, donors, and volunteers. Notably, no participant requested a refund, showcasing the deep dedication to the cause. The event raised vital funds for NAMI Montana's work with youth and veterans, highlighting the power of a committed community to drive change and support mental health care in Montana.

Thank You

Dec 30, 2024

Thank You For An Amazing Year!

This blog post expresses gratitude for the support NAMI Montana received in the past year, despite facing significant challenges. Key achievements highlighted include:

  • Expanding access to mental health support groups and educational programs.

  • Partnering with MSU to deliver youth mental health education.

  • Providing crucial guidance and support to Montanans navigating mental health and legal systems.

  • Advocating for legislative changes to improve veterans' mental health care and access to innovative treatments.

  • Hosting a successful conference to share knowledge and gather community input.

  • Introducing new legislation to address the mental health needs of veterans affected by traumatic brain injuries.

The post emphasizes the crucial role of donors and partners in enabling these accomplishments and expresses optimism for the future, acknowledging the ongoing work ahead, particularly during the upcoming legislative session.

Diane Carlson Evans at Vietnam Women's Memorial

Veterans Advocacy

Apr 19, 2024

Senator Tester Nominates Diane Carlson Evans for Presidential Medal of Freedom

NAMI Montana commends Senator Jon Tester for nominating Diane Carlson Evans for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her impactful advocacy for Montana veterans. Diane is celebrated for her key role in establishing the Vietnam Women's Memorial, honoring the service of U.S. women in the Vietnam War. Additionally, she significantly aided NAMI Montana's federal veterans advocacy, particularly influencing policies on mental health screening for service members. Diane also helped establish a Vet Center in Helena, enhancing support for combat veterans. NAMI Montana encourages public support for Diane’s nomination, highlighting her national influence on veterans' advocacy.

Trans-Montana Fundraiser

Feb 9, 2024

Celebrating a Decade of Dedication: Trans-Montana's Impact on Youth and Veterans Mental Health

The TransMontana charity snowmobile ride, a cornerstone event organized by the Montana Snowmobile Association for NAMI Montana's veteran and youth mental health initiatives, marked its tenth year with resilience. Despite the cancellation of the ride due to insufficient snow, the community's spirit remained undeterred. A banquet in Butte replaced the ride, celebrating the enduring support and commitment of the riders, donors, and volunteers. Notably, no participant requested a refund, showcasing the deep dedication to the cause. The event raised vital funds for NAMI Montana's work with youth and veterans, highlighting the power of a committed community to drive change and support mental health care in Montana.

Diane Carlson Evans at Vietnam Women's Memorial

Veterans Advocacy

Apr 19, 2024

Senator Tester Nominates Diane Carlson Evans for Presidential Medal of Freedom

NAMI Montana commends Senator Jon Tester for nominating Diane Carlson Evans for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her impactful advocacy for Montana veterans. Diane is celebrated for her key role in establishing the Vietnam Women's Memorial, honoring the service of U.S. women in the Vietnam War. Additionally, she significantly aided NAMI Montana's federal veterans advocacy, particularly influencing policies on mental health screening for service members. Diane also helped establish a Vet Center in Helena, enhancing support for combat veterans. NAMI Montana encourages public support for Diane’s nomination, highlighting her national influence on veterans' advocacy.

Trans-Montana Fundraiser

Feb 9, 2024

Celebrating a Decade of Dedication: Trans-Montana's Impact on Youth and Veterans Mental Health

The TransMontana charity snowmobile ride, a cornerstone event organized by the Montana Snowmobile Association for NAMI Montana's veteran and youth mental health initiatives, marked its tenth year with resilience. Despite the cancellation of the ride due to insufficient snow, the community's spirit remained undeterred. A banquet in Butte replaced the ride, celebrating the enduring support and commitment of the riders, donors, and volunteers. Notably, no participant requested a refund, showcasing the deep dedication to the cause. The event raised vital funds for NAMI Montana's work with youth and veterans, highlighting the power of a committed community to drive change and support mental health care in Montana.

Help Us With This Important Mission

We rely on donor support for all of our work. We can't do this without you!

Help Us With This Important Mission

We rely on donor support for all of our work. We can't do this without you!

Help Us With This Important Mission

We rely on donor support for all of our work. We can't do this without you!

Help Us With This Important Mission

We rely on donor support for all of our work. We can't do this without you!

Stay Connected to Better Health

We are mental health experienced therapists that are passionate about our goal on empowering you mentally with our wellness journey.

© 2025 NAMI Montana

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions

Stay Connected to Better Health

We are mental health experienced therapists that are passionate about our goal on empowering you mentally with our wellness journey.

© 2025 NAMI Montana

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions

Stay Connected to Better Health

We are mental health experienced therapists that are passionate about our goal on empowering you mentally with our wellness journey.

© 2025 NAMI Montana

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions