FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lance Gideon, Press Secretary
Lance.Gideon@iga.in.gov
317-234-9921
STATEHOUSE (April 20, 2023) — A Senate Republican Caucus priority bill authored by State Sen. Ron Alting (R-Lafayette) that would improve access to mental health care for Hoosiers unanimously the General Assembly today.
Senate Enrolled Act 1 would build out a structure of certified behavioral health clinics, establishing the next steps for improving Indiana's mental health care system.
"During my 25 years in the Senate, I have always worked to pass compassionate legislation for all Hoosiers," Alting said. "Senate Enrolled Act 1 is the largest piece of mental health legislation brought forth during my tenure in the General Assembly and I am proud to have been an author of the bill."
According to data collected by the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, about 22% of Hoosiers experience mental illness each year, and the total burden of untreated mental health in Indiana is approximately $4.2 billion.
SEA 1 would also help the state continue to improve the availability to mental health services and infrastructure so Hoosiers have access to the resources they need.
The bill now moves to the governor's desk for his consideration.
To learn more about SEA 1, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Sen. Ron Alting (R-Lafayette) represents Senate District 22, which includes
Carroll County and portions of Tippecanoe County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
