Landmark Michigan bill expands assisted outpatient treatment for those most in need of care
(Nov. 17, 2016) Michigan joined the ever expanding list of states embracing mental health reform to make psychiatric treatment more accessible. Michigan Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley November 16 signed legislation updating and expanding the availability of Michigan’s assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) law, known as Kevin’s Law.
Lt. Governor Calley stated, “Through early intervention and assisted outpatient treatment options, we are helping provide support around those suffering to restore their capacity for independence. The availability of more treatment options will help address the root cause of the problem while also reducing many avoidable law enforcement situations.”
The updated law embraces a more modern and destigmatizing understanding of mental illness by allowing individuals with mental illness to qualify for treatment under AOT based on their impaired judgment, rather than focusing exclusively on violence or harm.
“For too long, families have been told that they are powerless to help their loved one until they become so sick they hurt themselves or someone else. Now, Michigan is offering individuals with a mental illness and their families a new hope” said John Snook, executive director of the Treatment Advocacy Center.
Michigan legislators also acknowledged the vital role that caregivers and families play by reforming the law to allow family members to be able to directly petition for AOT in certain situations. “By empowering families and caregivers, Michigan legislators are to be applauded for embracing the latest research on mental illness treatment. Numerous studies show that family involvement results in significant benefits — for both the individual and the healthcare system itself.”
Special thanks goes to the countless Michigan families who have spent years advocating and telling their stories alongside the Treatment Advocacy Center. It is those stories and the relentless drive of advocates from across the state that make such reform possible.
The nation is finally embracing mental health reform. But our work is not done.
Four states continue to refuse to help those most in need by making AOT available as a treatment option. We hope that families in Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Tennessee all take this example to heart and know that their hard work is not in vain.
Momentum is on the side of treatment and the Treatment Advocacy Center will not rest until necessary treatment is available to everyone who needs it.
Photo courtesy: Lt. Governor's Office