Monroe Review

State Representative Jamie Thompson has taken steps to reform Michigan's mental health system through a series of bills aimed at enhancing oversight and transparency. The House Health Policy Committee recently advanced these proposals, which are designed to ensure patients receive necessary and effective care.

House Bill 4218 proposes the addition of three new members to the recipient rights advisory committee. These members will be drawn from mental health advocacy groups. According to Thompson, "These groups often receive complaints and calls from impacted individuals and their families. By putting representatives from these groups on the committee, they can take what they are hearing from patients and their loved ones and push for changes that will lead to more effective care and better outcomes."

Another measure, House Bill 4219, mandates that patient rights for voluntary mental health treatment be communicated both orally and in writing. This comes after reports from patient advocacy organizations indicated that voluntary patients frequently remain unaware of their rights, including the right to terminate treatment. Thompson highlighted issues with state-run psychiatric hospitals, stating that "Some of the problems we are hearing about from patients and families involve someone not knowing their rights when they voluntarily seek treatment."

Thompson expressed her ongoing commitment: “During my time in the Legislature, I have been committed to delivering a better mental health care system for people and children across Michigan. These bills are a step in the right direction, and I look forward to continuing these conversations and improving our processes.”

In response to systemic challenges within the state's mental health services, Thompson has advocated for an investigation by the state Auditor General into the Office of Recipient Rights. This is intended to safeguard constitutional and statutory rights for recipients of public mental health services while ensuring awareness among patients and families.

The proposed legislation now awaits consideration by the full House.