Democrats take aim at proposed cuts to mental health programs

By Cy Ryan

Tuesday, March 29, 2011 | 11:28 a.m.

CARSON CITY – Democrats are taking aim at Gov. Brian Sandoval’s proposed budget that cuts mental health spending by 14 percent and eliminates or reduces such things as counseling, housing and treatment.

“This is foolishness,” said Sen. Sheila Leslie, D-Reno. These programs, she said, keep those with mental health problems out of jail or from being restrained in a more secure and costly mental health institution.

A joint Senate-Assembly budget subcommittee zeroed in today on the proposal by the governor. Lawmakers didn't make any decisions, but Democrats showed preference for re-instating some of the cuts.

Assemblywoman April Mastroluca, D-Las Vegas, said this was a case of early intervention of patients to avoid possible prison terms or more expensive treatment down the line.

Sandoval wants to eliminate state support for mental health court services. Clark County is getting $1.7 million a year to handle an average of 97 cases a year, while Washoe County receives $1.2 million a year.

Clark County District Judge Jackie Glass told the subcommittee that if the state eliminates these services, the county won’t pick up the tab for the program.

Glass said those with mental health problems who are referred to the courts don’t have any place to live and have no access to treatment. Under the program, they receive treatment and are under supervision to make sure they take their medicine -- and it keeps them out of jail, she said.

Leslie said she “draws the line” in shifting responsibility to counties.

“The constitution requires the state to provide for the mentally ill,” she said.