Mental Health Advocates Push For More Funding From Springfield
By: Alex de Leon
Updated: January 28, 2013
Mental health advocates are asking for money from the state. But, lawmakers say there's nothing to give.
It's a situation advocates say could lead to more violence. Many jails across the state house inmates with mental issues. Jails are required to offer treatment, but it's refused. Necessary medication isn't taken and at least one county sheriff says it makes for a very dangerous situation.
"They get into fights" says Sangamon Co. Sheriff Neil Williamson. "They fight with correctional officers then they get hurt. Then we're dealing with workers' compensation issues."
The Governor's office says they'll address mental health services after the state's $97 billion pension crisis is solved.
It's a situation advocates say could lead to more violence. Many jails across the state house inmates with mental issues. Jails are required to offer treatment, but it's refused. Necessary medication isn't taken and at least one county sheriff says it makes for a very dangerous situation.
"They get into fights" says Sangamon Co. Sheriff Neil Williamson. "They fight with correctional officers then they get hurt. Then we're dealing with workers' compensation issues."
The Governor's office says they'll address mental health services after the state's $97 billion pension crisis is solved.
