Policy and Advocacy

·include a 7.8% inflationary increase, but the Senate directs 4% to targeted salary increases

·omit “prescriber prevails” limitations -requirements for additional justification for coverage of non-preferred drug coverage

·omit scope of practice expansion for pharmacists, physician’s assistants, medication aides, and medical assistants

·omit the nurse licensure compact

·omit the expansion of criteria for involuntary admission and assisted outpatient treatment

Assembly

·require implementation of an incident review panel when a serious event occurs in the community involving a person with a mental illness

·establish a behavioral health crisis technical assistance center

·outline additional discharge planning requirements for hospitals

Senate

·enact Daniel’s law

·require Certified Recovery Peer Advocates in certain services overseen by OASAS

·put in place a drug-checking surveillance program

·        make permanent parity for telehealth reimbursement

·        require transparency measures for the distribution of opioid stewardship funds

InUnity Alliance is analyzing the budget resolutions and actively advocating on key priorities with the Governor’s Office. We will keep members informed with ongoing updates.

InUnity Alliance board members participated in legislative visits on March 4th to educate lawmakers about the importance of addiction and mental health services.

Our advocacy was focused on the 7.8% inflationary increase, the inclusion of our services in MCO tax reinvestments (which only included other health services), and ensuring there is an increased focus on SUD services.

InUnity Alliance is sharing our priorities through summaries highlighting our:

·        overall budget priorities;

·        budget-related legislation; and

·        legislative priorities.