The time is now. With the new year, comes the start of the 2023 Legislative Session in Montana.
Mental health needs are at an all-time high in Montana. The 2021 Legislature directed the executive branch to perform a Medicaid rate study of the behavioral health system (serving people with mental illness, substance use issues and/or intellectual or developmental disabilities). The findings of the study demonstrate the urgent need for adequate funding.
However, the Governor’s proposed budget for the next two years falls far short of adequately funding behavioral health services.
In collaboration with the Behavioral Health Alliance of Montana, AWARE is asking that the recommendations of the rate study be fully implemented, including an annual cost of living adjustment, to keep the community-based behavioral health system of care intact.
Please call and/or email the governor and your representatives and ask them to support this investment in mental health.
To help you with your advocacy efforts, we have prepared an informational flyer that you may view here.
Still have questions? AWARE’s CEO, Matt Bugni is passionate about advocacy and will be happy to answer your questions.
Without adequate funding, our system of care will collapse and ultimately cost the state and its taxpayers more. We need your advocacy now more than ever.