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SB 144

Change name of mental health advisory council to behavioral health advisory council

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Yakawich

Montana renames its mental health advisory council to behavioral health advisory council to reflect broader public health terminology and service integration.

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Bill Summary · SB 144

Legislative bill overview

SB 144 changes the official name of Montana's mental health advisory council to the "behavioral health advisory council." The bill was introduced by Senator Mike Yakawich and has completed the legislative process, being signed by the Governor on April 3, 2025.

Why is this important

The name change reflects evolving terminology in public health, as "behavioral health" is a broader term that encompasses mental health services alongside substance use disorder treatment and other behavioral conditions. This modernization can improve clarity in how the state refers to and coordinates these interconnected services.

Potential points of contention

  • Terminology debate: Some stakeholders may prefer "mental health" as more specific and recognizable to the general public, while others argue "behavioral health" better captures the full scope of services
  • Rebranding costs: Updating signage, letterhead, websites, and official documents across state agencies involves administrative expenses
  • Limited scope of change: Critics might question whether a name change meaningfully improves service delivery or outcomes without accompanying policy or funding changes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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