Several bills impacting healthcare and hospitals were advanced through committees in the state Senate during the week of Oct. 28.
The Senate Health Policy Committee unanimously approved Senate Bills (SB) 916 – 918, led by Sen. Hertel (D-Saint Clair Shores). The bills would expand the availability of Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) in Michigan. AOT has been proven to decrease the number of individuals involved in the criminal justice system with behavioral health needs and can decrease the pressure on emergency departments for issues related to behavioral health. The bills expand the healthcare providers eligible to provide testimony for AOT and adds a new mechanism to divert individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses to AOT. The MHA supports the legislation as it awaits a vote of the full Senate.
Additionally, the Senate Regulatory Reform Committee took testimony on Senate Bills 651 – 654, led by Sen. Singh (D-East Lansing). The bills are spearheaded by the Keep Michigan Kids Tobacco Free Alliance and would create new licensing for establishments that sell tobacco products while enhancing the penalties on those retailers for selling to individuals under age 21. The legislation also removes punitive penalties on youth to reduce barriers for those who are seeking help for nicotine addiction. The MHA supports the legislation to improve Michigan’s public health as it awaits a vote of the committee.
Members with questions on state legislation can contact Elizabeth Kutter at the MHA.