Montana Picks Laurel for New 32-Bed State Mental Health Hospital

Overview

• The Department of Public Health and Human Services said Friday that Laurel was selected after the state budget office accepted a plan developed with the Board of Investments.
• DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton pointed to local health-care workforce, infrastructure, and geography that would improve access and transportation for patients, staff, and law enforcement across central and eastern Montana.
• Miles City and Hardin submitted formal proposals, while Laurel did not, leading officials in Custer, Big Horn, and Yellowstone counties to question the process and seek details.
• Laurel instead provided a letter stating there was no suitable site within city limits, and the state has not identified the specific parcel where the hospital will be built.
• Potential sites discussed locally include property along Old Highway 10 and land near the Laurel Airport, with the Legislature having approved $26.5 million for the 32-bed facility to expand eastern Montana capacity.