Advocacy Alert: December 2022 Legislative News Round Up

January 5, 2023

For those of you who follow us on social media know, we post news stories on a daily basis that are connected to the behavioral health and addiction treatment industry.

Many of these are news stories regarding legislation, so once a month we send out a 'news roundup' of related news stories we've posted. Unless otherwise stated, BHAP has no official stance on any of these stories: the intention is to share so that we're all better informed as to what's happening in the legislative world.

A reminder that BHAP members get access to a monthly update with our advocate in Washington, DC, to find out what is going on and ask any questions you may have. Feel free to contact us for more information on that.

GA | Veteran state lawmaker named to lead Georgia’s mental health reform efforts
Shared 12/6/2022
The governor has appointed the head of an influential behavioral health reform panel to lead the state agency responsible for Georgia’s safety net system for people with disabilities and behavioral health needs.

Congress has its sights set too low on addiction, advocates charge
Shared 12/7/2022
Judging by lawmakers’ words, addiction might be the most bipartisan topic in Washington.

MI | Republicans’ last push on behavioral health reform fails in the Michigan Senate
Shared 12/13/2022
In Michigan, there is still consensus that Medicaid behavioral health delivery needs to be reformed.

New SAMHSA Proposal Relaxes Telehealth Regulations for Methadone, Buprenorphine Treatment
Shared 12/15/2022
The federal government has proposed a new rule that would allow take-home doses of methadone.

NY | D.A. to Fund Mental Health Care for People Arrested in Manhattan
Shared 12/16/2022
District Attorney Alvin Bragg plans to spend $9 million to provide social workers and housing services to those who want them.

OR | Outgoing health authority director suggests Oregon needs to expand state’s psychiatric hospital
Shared 12/20/2022
The Oregon State Hospital waitlist is getting longer, in spite of controversial release plan meant to make more room for incoming patients.

AK | Justice Dept. finds Alaska segregates children with behavioral disabilities
Shared 12/20/2022
The findings stem from an investigation by the department into whether children with behavioral disabilities are unnecessarily institutionalized in Alaska in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

UT | Utah Republican Rep. Marsha Judkins optimistic about upcoming health reform work
Shared 12/21/2022
Utah State Representative Marsha Judkins (R – Provo) shared her outlook for the upcoming 2023 legislative session with State of Reform last week, saying she is optimistic about making progress on health policy during the 2023 legislative session.

New Funding Bill Puts at Least $10B Toward Behavioral Health Efforts in 2023
Shared 12/22/2022
On Tuesday, congressional leaders released a bill that will fund the federal government through the current federal fiscal year 2023 and back several behavioral health efforts.

ME | In wake of Poland death, mental health advocates asking for better access to treatment in Maine
Shared 12/22/2022
On Monday, mental health advocates called on Gov. Mills, the state legislature, and Maine’s congressional delegation to better fund progressive treatment programs.

HI | Q&A: Hawaii DOH Community Programs Supervisor discusses state’s transition to 988 crisis line, increased call volume
Shared 12/23/2022
Hawaii implemented its 988 crisis response line in July to provide more efficient access to those in need of assistance during mental health or suicide crises.

SC | One year in, Bluffton police mental health advocate celebrates successes, looks for more
Shared 12/27/2022
Had it not been for Town Council Member Bridgette Frazier, there would be no such advocate in Bluffton.

Addiction Treatment for Inmates Draws Biden Drug Focus for 2023
Shared 12/30/2022
Incarcerated Americans struggling with addiction are slated to be the focus of 2023 Biden administration plans to quell soaring national drug use, a top White House official told Bloomberg Law.

Questions? Concerns?

As always, we want your input.

A reminder that BHAP members get regular access to our advocate in Washington, DC. If you have any questions about BHAP's advocacy efforts, please contact us.