Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, has introduced House Bill 1343, which proposes merging the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) with the Department of Corrections. Humphrey believes that the current mental health system is failing Oklahomans, as many individuals with mental health issues end up in prisons and jails due to a shortage of inpatient beds.
By moving mental health services under the DOC, Humphrey suggests that the state could potentially save costs and utilize existing facilities to address the growing demand for mental health services. He criticizes the lack of funding and training for mental health services in jails and prisons, leading to increased costs for counties and taxpayers.
Humphrey also expresses concerns about the impact of the lack of mental health funding on property taxes and the justice system. He calls for accountability from elected officials, including Governor Stitt, in addressing corruption within state agencies that contribute to the current state of mental health services in Oklahoma.
Humphrey shares a personal story of a friend who tragically lost her son due to a lack of mental health care, emphasizing the urgency of reforming the current system. He urges Oklahomans to join him in advocating for better mental health services and holding government officials accountable for addressing the issues within the system.
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