Dear John,
May is mental health awareness month, and here in Connecticut, your local Democrats are working hard to make mental health care more accessible, affordable, and responsive to the real needs of our communities.
From strengthening insurance protections to expanding community services, your democratic lawmakers are taking meaningful steps to support the well-being of every resident.
Here’s how:
Holding Insurers Accountable: Connecticut lawmakers have passed legislation requiring health insurers to provide the same level of coverage for mental health services as they do for physical health care. The law includes stronger penalties for companies that do not comply and introduces new public reporting requirements to increase transparency and oversight.
Supporting Youth Mental Health: A new $3 million pilot program will provide digital mental health resources to students to address the growing mental health needs among our youth.
Investing in Community Clinics: Connecticut has secured a federal planning grant to develop a statewide payment model for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs). These clinics will offer 24/7 mental health and substance use services, ensuring timely care for individuals in crisis, regardless of their ability to pay.
These improvements are especially critical in Connecticut’s rural communities, where residents face greater challenges accessing mental health care due to provider shortages and limited infrastructure.
We’re building a Connecticut where mental health care is a right, not a privilege.
Sincerely,
Adrienne Billings-Smith
Vice Chair
