State should address mental health funding

It is imperative that the state fully address the needs of mental health and developmental disabilities funding.

Iowa has shortchanged this funding for several years, resulting in people with needs being incarcerated and being asked to manage without services or medication. This year, the state has a new delivery system going into place which must be fully funded to prevent additional losses for people with special needs.

Sen. Rob Hogg recognizes these needs, as noted in the Jan. 3 article “C.R. senator: Iowa's mental health system needs work.” I applaud his leadership.

The good news is that Iowa has a financial surplus which should help us make up for past cuts and gives us the chance to fully fund the new delivery system for upcoming years.

All people, regardless of whether they have a mental illness or developmental disability, deserve timely and appropriate services when they need them.

Carolyn M.

Cleveland

Cedar Rapids