Reform is long overdue

Virginia’s mental health system is in dire need of reform. An overly restrictive commitment standard, combined with a weak AOT law and a severe shortage of inpatient hospital beds has resulted in a statewide mental health crisis.

But the move toward real change has begun. The Virginia Senate Health & Education Subcommittee will be holding hearings this Thursday, August 3rd on SB18 and SB309, two AOT bills before the Virginia Legislature. We encourage all Virginia advocates to voice their opinion and let the Virginia legislature know that the time for reform is long overdue.