Evaluation, Quality Management & Improvement Division (EQMI)

Administration of Federal Block Grants

Kyle Barrette, LCSW, Block Grant State Planner, 860-418-6993, Kyle.Barrette@ct.gov

Federal Block Grants for Substance Use and Mental Health:

Annually, over $30 million of federal funding flows to DMHAS through two block grants administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):

• Substance Use Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Services Block Grant (SUPTRS BG)
• Community Mental Health Services Block Grant (CMHS BG)

The Evaluation, Quality Management and Improvement (EQMI) division is responsible for completing the annual applications for these block grants, as well as coordinating the allocation and utilization of block grant funds. 

Specific responsibilities include:

• Completing annual applications for funding
• Monitoring compliance with block grant requirements and federal regulations
• Identifying unmet behavioral health care needs and the current demand for services
• Determining strategies to address identified service needs
• Developing and evaluating performance measures
• Completing annual reports

In addition to these responsibilities, EQMI supports other aspects of block grant administration including:

• Interpreting federal regulations
• Providing technical assistance
• Evaluating data to assure proper integrity
• Assisting in the implementation of appropriate procedures to comply with federal block grant requirements

As part of the block grant process, EQMI develops the department’s Allocation Plan for each block grant on an annual basis. These Allocation Plans are submitted for approval to the Governor and the joint Appropriations and Public Health legislative committee.

Lastly, EQMI coordinates the Connecticut Behavioral Health Planning Council. The Council is a federally mandated body that advises DMHAS on its application and plans for the block grants and provides input regarding the allocation and adequacy of mental health and substance use services within Connecticut.

Quick Links:

Application for Federal Block Grants

Behavioral Health Planning Council