New bill would change plans for new state hospital into regional facilities

BISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR) — A bill introduced in the state legislature would change how mental health is treated in the state but it runs in opposition to current plans by North Dakota Health and Human Services.

The department is currently in phase 4 of it’s 5 phase plan to replace the state hospital with a new building in Jamestown.

State Senator Tim Mathern of Fargo has introduced a bill to use $5 million to renovate the state hospital.

It would treat people with mental health issues that are incarcerated, those who were involuntarily committed and those undergoing court ordered mental health examinations.

The bill would also provide $100 million for Health and Human services to create four service regions.

“The goal here is to actually spend resources to provide treatment, but to take it closer to the people, their families, and their communities,” said Sen. Tim Mathern, who introduced the bill.

Mathern is hoping to receive public support to pass this plan over the health department’s current building plans.