House and Senate Mental Health Committees Collaborate to Address Workforce Shortage

CHICAGO – The House Mental Health & Addiction Committee will reconvene with the Senate Behavioral & Mental Health Committee to continue discussing the ongoing issue of the behavioral health workforce shortage across the state. The meeting is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 23, at 10 a.m. in the Michael A. Bilandic Building in Chicago. As Chairperson of the House Mental Health & Addiction Committee, state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe has led efforts, in tandem with Sen. Laura Fine, to combat the current behavioral health crisis, including prioritizing access to mental health resources and growing the workforce.

“Illinoisians deserve access to top-notch care — and that starts with recognizing that mental health care is, simply, health care,” said LaPointe. “Teaming up with the Senate Behavioral Health Committee grants us a significant opportunity to directly hear from providers and craft real solutions to benefit those struggling with mental health, addiction, and trauma statewide.”

“As we continue this important conversation, we will be joined by stakeholders giving eye-opening testimony who’ve witnessed firsthand the limitations the state faces when equipping mental health services and workforces,” said LaPointe. “Our next step is to brainstorm and unpack policy solutions — ones that are inclusive, cost-effective, and benefit people in every corner of Illinois. As Chairperson of the Mental Health & Addiction Committee, it’s my priority to hear all solutions in order to weigh what we can do as lawmakers to have a maximum impact on behavioral health care.”

For more information, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or 773-647-1174.

Who: House Mental Health & Addiction, Senate Behavioral & Mental Health Committees

What: Joint Mental Health & Addiction Committee

When: Friday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m.

Where: Michael A. Bilandic Building; 160 N LaSalle, Chicago