NJAMHAA’s Advocacy Builds Potential for New
Legislation and Funding Increases
This year, NJAMHAA has surpassed
its own record in being nonstop active and effective in advocacy. Most recently
and notably, our communication with state legislators and policymakers has led
to the introduction of a fee-for-service (FFS) oversight bill and legislation
for safety-net funding. In addition, we provided substantial input on
legislation to expand screening centers and Early Intervention Support
Services, which was recently passed by the Senate Health, Human Services and
Senior Citizens Committee. We also submitted budget resolutions for FFS safety
net funding, a 5% Cost of Living Adjustment on remaining contracts, and
increased rates for Care Management Organizations for the FY 2018 State Budget,
all of which are circulating in both the Assembly and Senate.
Our partnership with members
is a key factor in the impact we are having. We rely on our members’
experiences and insights on the impact of regulations, legislation and
reimbursement changes, as well as clients’ success stories, to maximize our
effectiveness.
Success stories are
particularly effective in local advocacy and I urge all of our members to share
these compelling examples of their services’ value with their local legislators.
Illustrations of how funding restrictions and regulatory changes can harm
individuals and families are equally poignant.
Everyone can
have an impact.
All of our member providers do have impact through the vital
services they provide every day. An inspiring example of all NJAMHAA providers’
personal dedication is Lou Schwarcz, former President and CEO of the Mental
Health Association of Morris County. Lou has made the admirable decision to
step down from his position and achieve a merger with the Mental Health
Association of Essex County to ensure that clients do not lose services and
that most of the MHAMC staff remains employed. I look forward to honoring Lou
with the Unparalleled Leadership in
Serving New Jersey’s Mental Health Community Award during our upcoming
Membership Meeting.
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