Executive Board (Northern Michigan Regional Entity Presentation, 4/09/2024)

**Executive Summary**

**Overview of the Northern Michigan Regional Entity (NMRE)**
The Northern Michigan Regional Entity (NMRE) is a collective formed by 21 counties in Michigan, established under the Michigan Mental Health Code to act as a Prepaid Inpatient Health Plan (PIHP). The NMRE manages the delivery of behavioral health services across various counties, ensuring compliance with state contracts and maintaining a robust network of providers. This Entity’s primary role includes handling state funding for mental health services, especially for individuals dealing with substance use disorders (SUD).

**Functions and Responsibilities**
The NMRE’s responsibilities are extensive, focusing on managing Medicaid funding and ensuring the availability of services to meet the needs of the community. With the establishment of the SUD Oversight Committee, NMRE has been tasked with the allocation of local funds aimed at treatment and prevention of substance use issues. This body is instrumental in recommending budget approvals and advising the NMRE Board on contracts with service providers, thereby enhancing response strategies and overall service delivery for mental health and SUD needs.

**Funding Sources and Allocation for FY2024**
In FY2024, the NMRE anticipates substantial funding from various sources, totaling an estimated $227 million for severe mental illnesses and intellectual disabilities. Furthermore, it has earmarked specific amounts for SUD treatment, including Medicaid funds and block grants totaling over $16 million. Additional grants received by NMRE, including state opioid response and COVID response funds, underscore the commitment to cater to diverse community needs while supporting innovative prevention and treatment initiatives.

**Leelanau County Liquor Tax Funds**
For Leelanau County, the FY2024 budget reflects an encouraging financial outlook with a projected ending balance of over $97,000, derived from liquor tax revenues allocated for prevention and treatment services. Approved projects include youth prevention initiatives and media campaigns aimed at drug-free lifestyles. The NMRE aims to maintain a significant reserve to ensure sustained service provision throughout the year.

Michigan Mental Health Code
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services