Senate Takes Bipartisan Vote to Boost Mental Health Services for Kids

The state Senate endorsed an omnibus plan Friday to bolster mental health services for Connecticut children in effort to strengthen a support system exposed as inadequate to handle the additional strains of the pandemic.

The Senate approved the bill on a 33 to 1 vote following statements of support from lawmakers of both parties. Sen. Rob Sampson, R-Southington, cast the only vote in opposition.

Shortfalls in the behavioral health system emerged as early a legislative priority after public hearings exposed existing deficiencies that had been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Lawmakers heard stories of children struggling with mental health crises turning to emergency departments as treatment programs around the state reported long waiting lists.

“To the children, know that your power that you have and the love that people in our state have for you is significant,” Sen. Saud Anwar, D-South Windsor, said Friday. “Every single person with all different perspectives, views and people who passionately disagree on different things agree on showing their love to you.”

Read more: https://ctnewsjunkie.com/2022/04/22/senate-takes-bipartisan-vote-to-boost-mental-health-services-for-kids/