On Thursday, the state legislators called for more mental health support at the Minnesota Capitol after a massive cut in proposed funds for treatment.
Statewide sheriffs and county lawyers say the lack of capacity at facilities across the state makes it difficult for people in need of treatment to be put in prisons rather than in prisons.
Renville County Sheriff Scott Hubble, who is adjacent to sheriffs and county lawyers across the state, said some individuals could be waiting days, weeks, months and a year without the necessary care.
“These individuals need treatment, not jail,” said Renville County Sheriff Scott Hubble. “They’re patients, not criminals. They need hospitals, not prisons. Minnesota’s mental health care facilities lack capacity, so they have to criminalize and stop mental illnesses.”
Their main concern, coupled with a lack of funding for mental health facilities and a suspension of the 48-hour rule, requires someone to be transferred to treatment within 48 hours if it turns out to be mentally unstable.
Authorities say changes in funding occurred during budget negotiations for the backroom, where they and the public were excluded.
The group said the proposed funds will be significantly reduced, and that small amounts of funds will also be subject to the passage of the bond bill.
Click here to learn more about the 48-hour rule.
Related stories: Health Mental Health Minnesota Congress Minnesota Politics Public Safety
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