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MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION IN NEW YORK STATE, INC.
2005 GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT

Prepared by Michael Seereiter, Director of Public Policy, January 2006

MHANYS' 2005 Legislative Agenda

Timothy's Law

End health insurance discrimination by enacting parity in coverage for mental health and addiction services as is provided for other health services

Housing

Increase availability of housing for individuals with mental illness. Additional capacity in community residences (CR), single room occupancy (SRO) and supported housing are necessary to provide housing, especially for targeted populations such as homeless individuals, those leaving jails and prisons, and adult home residents.

Planning

 Establish a plan for the future provision of services in the mental health health system. All stakeholders in the mental health system, especially those at the local level, must be involved in discussions and implementation of any changes to the existing mental health system. Such planning is not limited to, but must address issues concerning:
  • the availability of housing
  • the closure of psychiatric centers
  • development of services for aging population
  • continued development of services for children
  • qualified workforce to deliver safe and effective treatment

Access to Medicaid

Ensure that individuals living with mental illness have access to the services and treatment currently provided under Medicaid, including open access to prescription drugs

Prison
and Jail Reform

 Prevent children and adults with mental illness from becoming involved, or further involved, with the juvenile justice system and adult criminal justice system through diversion programs, eliminating inappropriate treatment, and ensuring appropriate post-release support.
  • Ensure all eligible individuals leaving the correctional system have Medicaid coverage
  • Eliminate solitary confinement for inmates with mental illnesses