We need a better response to mental health care – Treatment not prison!

“…. When I was sick you visited me, and when I was in prison, you came to me.” Matthew 25:36

Central to the Gospel message is the theme that we encounter God in transformative ways among and in the midst of the most marginalized in our society. Despite increased societal awareness, individuals who suffer from mental illness and individuals who enter the criminal justice system remain among the most stigmatized and marginalized people in our communities.

With significant budget cuts to mental health services over the last several decades, there has been a marked increase in the number of people with mental health illnesses in jails and prisons. As Sen. Al Franken (MN-D) observes, “Right now, our criminal justice system is facing a crisis. We’re using jails and prisons as a substitute for a properly functioning mental health system”

The bipartisan Comprehensive Justice and Mental Health Act of 2015 (CJMHA) cosponsored by Sen. Franken and Sen. John Cornyn (TX-R) would expand and improve responses to individuals with mental illness in the criminal justice system. It is a common-sense measure that would address a growing and serious need in the criminal justice system.

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month. Take action by urging your members of Congress to support the bipartisan Comprehensive Justice and Mental Health Act of 2015.