Mental health overhaul draws concern at forum

CEDAR RAPIDS - The state's ongoing overhaul of the mental health and developmental disabilities (MHDD) system was the subject of concern for about 200 people Saturday at a public forum at Mercy Medical Center.

Cherie Clark, 61, a member of Peer Action Disability Support (P.A.D.S), who has had cerebral palsy since birth and uses a wheelchair, was among those who attended the forum. She said she hopes legislators agree to adequately fund the system across all 99 counties, allow for growth, and make a long-term commitment.

However, Clark said she fears some counties will lose out on services. She said she wants to see “core elements that are standard throughout the state.”

Sen. Rob Hogg, D-Cedar Rapids, was among the lawmakers and medical experts that residents addressed Saturday at the forum. He said both parties are to blame for some of the current system's shortfalls.

“No party ever reached 100 percent fully funding MHDD obligation,” Hogg said.

Hogg said the first question lawmakers must address is who is going to pay for the overhaul of the system, and who is going to administer the money. Pending legislation in both the Iowa House and Senate answers those questions differently.

Hogg echoed Clark's fears, saying he worries overhauling the MHDD system could mean counties and local governments will lose their power to help the people in their own communities.

“It's easier to call a county official or county supervisor than it is to call up a state agency in Des Moines,” Hogg said.

It's unknown when or if the pending mental health reform legislation will be taken up by either chamber at the Statehouse.