Ohio’s most recent state operating budget for fiscal years 2020-2021 included investments across state agencies and is reflective of the RecoveryOhio report, which includes recommendations to address gaps in the mental health and addiction system as well as solutions to strengthen prevention, treatment, and recovery supports. The MHAC advocated throughout the budget process by meeting with legislators, testifying, communicating through letters and emails, and organizing an advocacy day. The MHAC commends this General Assembly for working together in a bipartisan approach to craft a budget that invests in Ohio’s future.
Funding in the budget included:
- $18 million to provide Ohio’s schools with K-12 prevention education that teaches students social emotional skills to make healthy decisions throughout their lives.
- $18 million for Dedicate funding for Multi-System Youth in order to keep families together and provide care to children with the most complex needs before out-of-home placement, custody relinquishment, or entrance into the juvenile justice system occurs.
- $8 million over the biennium to support workforce development
- Additional $22 million over the biennium for crisis infrastructure and supports and services in local communities.
- $1 million in each fiscal year to fund the expansion of Project DAWN programs in high-risk counties. This will increase the availability of naloxone and increase the number of project sites.
- $1 million per fiscal year insurance parity compliance by providing towards consumer education.
- $5 million for non-behavioral health professionals such as law enforcement and faith leaders for training in mental health first aid to recognize and intervene during a mental health crisis.
- $18 million for a multi-media campaign to reduce stigma and educate Ohioans about mental health and substance use disorders.
- $7.5 million over the biennium to add 30 new specialty dockets in collaboration with the Supreme Court of Ohio.
- No changes to Medicaid expansion eligibility requirements.