§ 10-903

(a) (1) The governing body of any county may apply for assistance to establish a mental health program under this part.

(2) A county shall apply by submitting annually to the Director, for approval by the Secretary, a plan and budget for the next fiscal year.

(b) The governing bodies of two or more counties may apply for assistance to establish a community mental health program for the counties if:

(1) The population of one of the counties is too small to warrant the establishment of an independent community mental health program for that county; and

(2) The Director consents.

(c) A community mental health services program is not eligible for assistance under this part unless:

(1) Its plan and budget conform to the State plan for mental health services and the priorities set under it; and

(2) The qualifications of its professional staff meet the standards that the Secretary sets.