Snyder Expands Mental Health Panels

The Mental Health and Wellness Commission will look at transportation and the Mental Health Diversion Council will add juvenile issues under an executive order issued Thursday.

The order also gives the commission more time and the council more members.

"As we traveled to communities seeking input about how we could improve the mental health system, it became clear that issues such as transportation directly impact services and the level of care that our residents receive," Community Health Director James Haveman said. "The recommendations made by the commission have already led to positive changes and the expanded priority areas will only help to further the progress that has already been made."

The order charges the commission with making recommendations for solving transportation problems faced by those with mental illness, developmental disability and substance abuse problems, as well as for transition planning for families and children.

The commission is also charged with recommendations that would support the council's expanded charge of adding juvenile justice into the department's diversion action plan.

The council will see four new members with expertise in juvenile justice, for terms expiring January 30, 2018, to support that new charge.

The commission's life is extended through December 31, 2015, to accomplish its goals.

-Gongwer News Service