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The Legislative Committee has been closely monitoring discussion regarding a bill that would be introduced by Rep. Didech this veto session. The bill would provide a simple technical change validating those local mental health authorities approved last Fall. Based on the initial draft language provided by Rep. Didech’s office, the Legislative Committee was supportive of the bill with the understanding that ACMHAI will not support future efforts to open the Community Mental Health Act for legislative “fixes”.
The bill that was filed on Friday, SB 690 SA 1, includes the language supported by the Legislative Committee but adds “Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a community mental health public question may not be placed on the 2024 primary or general election ballot in the same township where a community mental health public question was approved on the 2022 general election ballot.” This additional language was added by the sponsor, Senator Gillespie, and was not discussed with the ACMHAI Executive Committee, Legislative Committee, nor the Legislative Co-Chairs. In addition, the new language is not consistent with our Legislative Priorities and addresses a political conflict that is outside of ACMHAI’s interest and authority.
Because of the above stated reasons, ACMHAI will not be formally slipping in support of SB 690 SA 1 and will instead monitor it and keep the membership posted on its progress. This does not preclude any individual member from supporting or opposing the bill.
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