As ACT is one of the more intensive, wrap-around models to help people with serious mental illness succeed in independent living settings, ACT is often viewed as a “least restrictive” alternative to many other institutional settings, and a state of homelessness.
As such, ACT should be a service option available in many locations, as part of a broader service system of care.
Read more about the Olmstead Decision here: https://www.ada.gov/olmstead/olmstead_about.htm
Enforcement of the Olmstead Decision has led to many state lawsuits and settlements. What happens is a state is found to be relying on institutional setting options at a rate that out-balances the investment in community-based (“least restrictive”) options. These settlements typically include many evidence-based programs and treatments found to help people in their recovery.
Curious as to who is in such a settlement? Check this out: https://www.ada.gov/olmstead/olmstead_cases_list2.htm
The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law is also a great resource. Check out their own Resource page, which includes many helpful links: http://www.bazelon.org/resource-library/
NAMI is often a good source for staying up to date with relevant legislature: https://www.nami.org/Press-Media/Press-Releases/2015/Mental-Health-Report-Good-News,-Bad-News-in-State
The Treatment Advocacy Center is often keeping its finger on current laws relevant to those with serious mental illness, in particular involuntary commitment laws. Although we believe a high-fidelity ACT team is capable of helping many people avoid involuntary and coercive treatments, it is one tool that often remains relevant to their work. Check out this resource map: http://www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org/browse-by-state