The Wisconsin Council on Mental Health (WCMH) is legislatively mandated under Wis. Stat. § 15.197(1) as the mental health planning council for the state. It was created to advise the Governor, the Legislature, and the Department of Health Services (DHS) on the allocation of federal Mental Health Block Grant funds. All Wisconsin Council on Mental Health meetings are open to the public.
The Council is comprised of 20 to 25 members appointed by the Governor and meets bi-monthly. At least half of the members are consumers, advocates, and/or family members. Other members represent state agencies, mental health providers, and other groups.
The WCMH evaluates and reviews the mental health system's progress towards achieving improved client outcomes and the adequacy of mental health services in the state. The council duties are specified in Wis. Stat. § 51.02. It oversees state compliance with federal Public Law 102-321.
