The failure of Maine lawmakers to act on the red flag law has put lives at risk, according to an editorial published on April 21. The state has also not pursued funding for a waiver to outdated federal restrictions on the use of Medicaid funds for mental health services. This lack of action has resulted in preventable tragedies and the loss of Maine lives.
Maine should take a leadership role in addressing this issue by urging its congressional delegation to co-sponsor a bill to eliminate discrimination in the allocation of federal funds for mental health services. Despite the passage of Sen. Joe Baldacci’s L.D. 445 last year, which was a top priority for the Health and Human Services Committee, it was never funded due to state budget constraints.
By investing $1.3 million in state funds, Maine could have received millions in federal dollars to develop progressive treatment programs and services. However, due to lack of funding, no waiver bill was pursued at the federal level prompting action is necessary at both state and federal levels to help Mainers and all Americans access critical mental health services.
Joe Pickering, Jr., Chair of the Truth Tear Down this Wall Committee in Bangor emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to address this critical issue.
The outdated federal Institute for Mental Diseases exclusion law is seen as a national security crisis, denying important federal funds for mental health services which has become more pressing with each passing day.
Therefore, it is crucial that Maine takes immediate action by advocating for change at both the state and federal levels to ensure that all Americans have access to life-saving mental health services.
