In recent years, Maine has been facing numerous challenges when it comes to mental health services. One of the main issues is the lack of funding for programs and services that could help save lives. This is particularly concerning given that Maine lawmakers have failed to act on a red flag law, which has resulted in tragic consequences for many Mainers.
Additionally, Maine has chosen not to fund a bid for a waiver to outdated federal restrictions on the use of Medicaid funds for mental health services. If we were to secure this waiver, similar to what we did for substance abuse treatment, we would have access to federal funds to help save lives. Last year, Sen. Joe Baldacci’s L.D. 445 passed both the House and the Senate and was the top priority of the Health and Human Services Committee, but it was never funded.
By investing $1.3 million in state funds, Maine could have received millions in federal dollars to develop and expand progressive treatment programs and other services. It is crucial to prioritize treatment before tragedy rather than waiting for tragedy before seeking treatment. The lack of action by Maine on this issue is shortsighted and discriminatory, and it has already cost lives and will continue to do so.
The federal Institute for Mental Diseases exclusion law, established in 1965, is a national security crisis as it denies federal funds for essential mental health services. This law has had a significant impact on the ability of states like Maine to provide adequate care for those in need. As such, it is important that Maine’s congressional delegation collectively support a bill to end this discrimination nationwide. Since Maine was unable to fund a waiver bill, there is a critical need for action from the congressional delegation to assist Mainers and others across the country. Joe Pickering, Jr., Chair of the Truth Tear Down this Wall Committee in Bangor, has raised awareness on this important issue and continues to advocate for change at both the state and national levels.
In conclusion, Maine must take immediate action on mental health issues if we want to prevent further tragedies from occurring. We cannot afford to ignore this problem any longer – our lives depend on it
