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CLMHD Executive Director, Kelly Hansen, was invited by NYS Senate Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee Chair, Senator David Carlucci, to present to committee members at their first meeting of the year. The meeting was chaired by Carlucci, and also included Senators George Amedore, Jr., John Brooks, and Luis Sepúlveda. Ms. Hansen presented on the impact of $4.75 million appropriated in the State Budget which has allowed for development and/or expansion of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment and transition services in county jails. 

According to a December 2017 report commissioned by the Conference, more than half (51%) of New York State jails reported that they have no funding for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment services, despite strong evidence that these services reduce crime, save money, and save lives. This funding has been critical to expanding necessary access and resources to treating individuals in local correctional facilities who are suffering from addiction. The Conference looks forward to working with State Legislature as we advocate for continued funding in this year's State Budget.

 

Click here to view video of Kelly Hansen's presentation.