FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 07 2025
Contact: Jon Ebelt, Communications Director, DPHHS, (406) 444-0936, (406) 461-3757
jebelt@mt.gov
DPHHS, BOI Seek Proposals for New Health Facility
The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and the Board of Investments (BOI) today launched hb5.mt.gov to solicit proposals from Montana communities interested in hosting a new 32-bed forensic mental health facility.
“The Department is committed to expanding mental health services in Eastern Montana,” DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton said. “Working together, I am confident that both DPHHS and BOI will facilitate robust engagement with local stakeholders when appropriate and prior to final site selection. We encourage communities and the public to visit hb5.mt.gov to learn more and provide us with input.”
The proposed 32-bed facility is a strategic, long-term solution designed for flexibility and scalability. While the facility will initially serve the forensic mental health population, its modular design will allow DPHHS to convert wings or pods to serve individuals under civil commitment if future demand for state psychiatric services shifts.
Earlier this year, the Montana Legislature passed, and Governor Gianforte signed into law, House Bill 5, which provided $26.5 million for the project.
DPHHS projects that adding 32 forensic beds to its system would increase annual capacity to serve approximately 170 patients, significantly reducing wait times and improving access to timely restoration services for Montanans.
The Department also released a formal guidance letter to BOI and a detailed analysis regarding its plan for a new 32-bed forensic mental health facility to address the state’s growing demand for forensic psychiatric services. The guidance can be viewed here.
Communities interested in submitting proposals should visit hb5.mt.gov.