Easter greetings to you!
The legislature is busy at work as the Easter holiday approaches. As we enter the “third half” of the session, as many legislators call it, the focus shifts from policy discussions to appropriations and funding.
Healthy Families--action needed
As you know, LSS has been closely following SB2253, which proposed an expansion of the Healthy Families program across the state. Earlier this week, the House Human Services Committee voted a “Do NOT Pass” on the Healthy Families bill. However, they took the step of moving language that would allow for a two region expansion into SB2048, which is primarily a bill that deals with Behavioral Health issues.
(CLICK to open LSSND Testimony on SB2253)
SB2048 is scheduled for a House vote today (April 2) and, if it passes, will be re-referred to the full House Appropriations Committee. We understand the Appropriations Committee could act as soon as today or tomorrow (April 2 or 3).
LSS is supportive of the larger intent of SB2048, (CLICK to open) which would help the state take steps to expand the availability of behavioral health services for youth and families. And of course, we are very supportive of the provision that would allow the Healthy Families program to serve more, young North Dakota families.
If you can spare a couple of minutes, it would be VERY helpful if you could make your voice heard to the House Appropriations Committee members in SUPPORT of SB2048.
The list of Committee members is below:
Your messages can be brief but, to be effective, they should be original. Your own words as to why this bill matters. Why you care about helping young families become more confident, capable parents for their children. Why you think this kind of work can help give kids the best start possible during the critical ages from birth to age three.
The text of the amended bill is linked above for your reference (Healthy Families is noted in Section 3). Also some of the previous testimony offered on the bill in case you are interested in learning more about the work the Healthy Families program does.
THANK YOU so very much for taking time to make your voice heard. Your efforts make for a better legislative process.
The legislators have so many issues to consider and vote on every day. We know they value thoughtful citizen input on issues that matter to you.
[I will send a separate update on the other legislative issues LSSND is following next week!]
