Monday, March 22, 2004

Cuts put aid for mentally ill at risk (New York)
Buffalo News story on the impact of Gov. George E. Pataki's proposed budget, in which services "....deemed non-essential by budget officials would be wiped out with the elimination of $7.7 million from the mental health budget for community-based services. Those in the budget cross hairs include the Peer Connection in Buffalo, whose staff of 12 provides services that range from helping patients find housing and develop work skills to ensuring severely ill people stay on their medicine. The group receives about $330,000 from the state. Unlike other mental health care groups, Peer Connection employs people who have suffered from mental illness, providing clients with someone to whom they can relate."  
  

Democrats, Advocates Decry Killing Of Mental Health Plan (Florida)
News4Georgia story - "Democrats and advocates for the mentally ill Friday called the killing of a mental health bill one of the lowest moments in Senate history. The plan was sponsored by Rep. Rene Kemp, of Hinesville. It would have made it easier for people on Medicaid with mental health needs to receive the correct drugs. Republican majority leaders abruptly adjourned Wednesday, shortly before they were scheduled to consider the plan. That was the day bills had to pass at least one legislative chamber or die..."