(Spencer)– State lawmakers and representatives of Congressman Steve King and Senator Chuck Grassley met Monday with those in charge of overseeing mental health services in Clay, Dickinson, O’Brien and Osceola counties. They called on lawmakers to provide more in state and federal assistance as more of the mental health cost burden is being passed down to the local level.
State Senator David Johnson of Ocheyedan says the concerns are very valid, but he says the situation in Iowa is still better than surrounding states. And he cautioned local officials the situation could get worse. Johnson says he’s concerned the federal government could soon be passing down some of its costs as well.
State Representative Roy Chambers of Sheldon says the concerns are being heard loud and clear, but he admits there’s little they can do right now given the economy and the state’s financial situation.
Prescription drug coverage, reimbursement rates for hospitals, mental health parity, block grants, full funding for the Traumatic Brain Injury Program, and a new facility to house those with serious mental illnesses that make them a danger to society were among the issues discussed at Monday’s forum in Spencer.
