Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Partnership
The Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Partnership (BHCJP) was created by House Bill 990 in 2005. The group meets regularly to improve services for individuals with mental health and substance use disorders who become involved with the criminal justice system. The partnership includes over 40 active members representing state agencies, local behavioral health authorities, local law enforcement, advocates, and behavioral health service providers.
BHCJP efforts have helped to divert Marylanders with behavioral health needs from the criminal justice system, improve mental health and substance use service delivery in correctional facilities, and increase the likelihood of a successful community reentry upon release.