NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore’s grassroots advocacy leaders educate legislators and influence policy-making decisions that better the lives of those affected by behavioral health issues. NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore works collaboratively with NAMI, NAMI Maryland, and Maryland Behavioral Health Coalition partners.
Legislative Priorities
NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore is a member of the Maryland Behavioral Health Coalition, a diverse mix of over fifty non-profit and non-governmental organizations working together to ensure individuals affected by mental health and substance use disorders receive effective and efficient care. The Coalition has a strong legislative platform that will continue to expand access to critical behavioral health services across the lifespan. Our 2018 legislative priorities are:
- Support our behavioral health workforce and guarantee access to a comprehensive system of care by fully funding the Keep the Door Open commitment.
- Expand crisis treatment and telehealth services to ensure access to urgent care and address behavioral health provider shortages.
- Improve outcomes measurement of behavioral health services delivered in the primary care setting.
Download the full 2018 legislative platform to learn more about each issue here.
Take Action
There are many ways to get involved in NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore’s advocacy efforts:
- Attend Advocacy Day: Mark your calendars for NAMI Maryland Advocacy Day and the Keep the Door Open Rally – Thursday, February 22nd. Advocates meet with legislators at the start of the legislative session. Share your personal stories and discuss mental health policies with elected officials. Registration is encouraged so that we can coordinate meetings on your behalf. Register here.
- Participate in NAMI Smarts for Advocacy: NAMI Smarts for Advocacy is a hands-on training that will help you transform lived experience into skillful grassroots advocacy. The training includes a series of 90-minute modules to develop a wide range of advocacy skills. See the upcoming schedule.
- Contact Your Legislator: Find your state and national legislative representatives
