Lawsuit settlement reached over children’s mental health services in Idaho

“This settlement outlines a plan for Idaho to create an effective and meaningful system of care,” said Howard Belodoff, attorney for the children in the lawsuit that first was filed in 1980. “When successfully implemented, the agreement will lead to children throughout the state having access to a comprehensive array of mental health services and supports in their own homes and communities.”

The lawsuit first was filed over adults and children with mental illness being co-mingled at State Hospital South, a situation that was rife with abuse. In anticipation of the settlement, lawmakers this year allocated up to $615,000 for plaintiff attorney fees in the case, to ensure the state could cover the costs without dipping directly into funding for children’s mental health services. More here . Betsy Russell, EOB