Credit: Getty Images.

Gov. Kathy Hochul’s fiscal year 2025-2026 budget includes proposals aimed at improving the mental health care and safety of people with serious mental illness, along with better protecting communities. The proposals would strengthen laws that relate to involuntary inpatient and outpatient treatment.

Disappointingly, it has been reported that the state Senate and Assembly are poised to reject these proposals in favor of emphasizing voluntary engagement in outpatient treatment.

Advertisement

Article continues below this ad

As a psychiatrist, I too would prefer that individuals participate with treatment on a voluntary basis. However, I recognize that despite best efforts, there remain people who are unable to participate willingly. Without systemic change, additional funding will not yield significant benefit for seriously mentally ill patients, nor will it make........

© Times Union