Each week, we compile and share stories from the past week focused on behavioral health, SUD, social services, and nonprofits centered in Michigan but across the United States. If there are specific topics that interest you, please let us know. This newsletter's information, content, and materials are for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute legal advice or investment advice. At times we may use AI to summarize an article. If something shared needs to be corrected, is misrepresented, or there are gaps in information, please let us know so we can make the necessary corrections.
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Governor Whitmer Signs FY 2025 Budget: Key Behavioral Health Investments
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed the fiscal year 2025 budget, leaving $330 million on Michigan's balance sheet. The budget focuses on public safety, affordable housing, infrastructure, and economic development.
The balanced, bipartisan budget will significantly impact behavioral health, substance use disorder (SUD) services, and public health. Governor Whitmer emphasized the importance of these investments, stating, “Together, we will help more workers make it in Michigan.”
Key behavioral health and public health highlights include:
$161.5 million to establish new Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, serving up to 35,000 additional individuals.
$7.3 million to ensure 24/7 access to the Michigan Crisis and Access Line for behavioral health crises.
$18.1 million for the Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies program to reduce racial disparities in infant and maternal mortality.
$28.7 million for a 20-cent raise for direct care workers.
$40 million for federally qualified health centers and $17.2 million for autism Medicaid rate increases.
$8.1 million for a Medicaid rate increase for private duty nursing services.
$7 million to provide vaccinations to young children.
$5.6 million to expand contraceptive coverage and family planning services.
$2.5 million for smoking cessation and tobacco prevention programs.
$5 million to help low-income households with pre-weatherization and improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
$1.5 million to increase the clothing and holiday allowances for children in foster care.
$4 million for internet gaming, internet sports betting, and state lottery funds to support Problem Gambling services.
$2 million to fund sexual assault victim services.
$20 million to provide new funds to communities that identify innovative approaches to support expectant parents and newborns.
These investments aim to improve access to mental health, SUD services, and overall public health, supporting Michigan’s families and communities in reaching their full potential. Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist II highlighted that this budget builds on their ongoing efforts to foster a healthier, safer, and more equitable Michigan.
MDHHS Policies
The following proposed policy has been issued for public comment: 2428-BCCHPS - Implementation of the MichiCANS for Medicaid-Funded Specialty Behavioral Health Services.
Comments may be forwarded to the e-mail noted on the policy's transmittal sheet. Proposed Medicaid policies may be accessed here on the MDHHS website. 2428-BCCHPS-P.pdf
ICYMI
Pine Rest secures $12.5M state earmark to support pediatric project, Crain’s Grand Rapids
State’s health care leaders focus on lowering drug prices, improving health outcomes, Crains Grand Rapids
MDHHS Director talks $37 billion 2025 budget, WZMQ CBS TV Marquette
New Facility for Metro Detroiters with Serious Mental Health Disorders - Open House Aug. 8, 5-7 pm, Michigan Mama News (blog)
Black Men’s Well-Being is a Focus During Minority Mental Health Month, Michigan Chronicle
Dickinson candidates offer statements on Mental health, and more, Iron Mountain Daily News
After years of opioids agony, rural Michigan finds reason for hope, Bridge Magazine
All of a Sudden, This Small Michigan Town Became the Most Dangerous in the State, West Plan Beach News
LEGISLATIVE + CANDIDATE FOCUS - CHANGE***
We profile legislators and candidates each week. This week, we encourage you to learn more about the candidates in the 5th House District (Detroit/Oakland County). Rep. Weiss’s redistrict was redrawn, making it competitive, especially in the Detroit precincts. Rep. Weiss, a teacher, has led the education efforts in the House.
MDHHS
Below, you can find an updated org chart from the MDHHS.
Get to know your legislators.
Although the campaigns are in full swing, legislators are still hosting district coffee hours, an excellent opportunity for you to engage lawmakers. Here is a list of coffee hours. Please double-check and confirm the times, as they may change.
Source: Kelly Cawthorne
AWARDS + HONORS + EVENTS
DWIHN Event on SUD and Opioids, August 22, 2024 (See Below)
Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHAM) Annual Fall Conference – October 21st & 22nd 2024 – Grand Traverse, Michigan
National Council on Behavioral Health – NatCon 25 – Philadelphia, PA May 5th -7th 2025
Detroit Regional Chamber 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference – Mackinac Island May 27th -30th, 2025
Upcoming Political Events
If you have an event you want to share, please get in touch with Daniel Cherrin.