North Carolina Executive Order Targets Behavioral Health & Criminal Justice Coordination

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein issued Executive Order No. 33 on February 5, 2026, aimed at strengthening coordination between the state’s behavioral health and criminal justice systems. The order directs multiple cabinet agencies to collaborate on system improvements but does not specify implementation deadlines.

The order outlines six priority areas:

Supporting the behavioral health and public safety workforce

Strengthening the behavioral health crisis system

Improving the involuntary commitment process

Strengthening behavioral health treatment for incarcerated individuals

Supporting youth in the juvenile justice system with behavioral health needs

Improving reentry supports for individuals with mental health needs

The order directs . . .