NAMI backs legislation to prevent unnecessary incarceration of individuals with mental illness

The National Alliance on Mental Illness recently expressed support for the Mental Health and Safe Communities Act, a bill designed to prevent unnecessary incarceration of individuals with mental illness.

Introduced by Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, the bill proposes federal resources be used for evidence-based programs such as Crisis Intervention Team programs, Mental Health Courts and Forensic Assertive Community Treatment programs to improve treatment services for individuals while they are in correctional facilities and after their release.

The NAMI estimates that 2 million individuals with mental illness are admitted to local jails each year. Most of them have committed low-level crimes that are directly linked to lacking mental health services and support, according to the organization.

Appropriate services, including assertive community treatment, supportive housing and employment and peer supports assistance, could help these individuals manage their illness and lead productive, successful lives within the community.

“We are grateful to Sen. Cornyn for his leadership in seeking a better, more humane way to respond to the needs of people with mental illness,” the organization said in a press release. “NAMI looks forward to working with Sen. Cornyn and other leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives to advance this important legislation.”