The Appropriations Subcommittee on Medicaid and Behavioral Health convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding mental health and substance use initiatives in Michigan. The meeting featured testimony from Kelly Ainsworth, Senior Program Director of the Greater Flint Health Coalition, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to address the committee.

Ainsworth highlighted the importance of the newly established process for discussing mental health and substance use issues, noting that it has been a long-awaited development for stakeholders in the community. She emphasized the coalition's commitment to improving access to mental health services and addressing substance use challenges in the region.

The meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance behavioral health services in Michigan, with Ainsworth representing a key organization involved in these initiatives. The discussions are part of a broader strategy to ensure that mental health and substance use programs receive adequate attention and funding in the state’s budget.

As the meeting progressed, committee members engaged in dialogue about the implications of these initiatives for Medicaid funding and the overall health of communities across Michigan. The session concluded with a commitment to continue exploring ways to support mental health and substance use programs effectively.

Overall, the meeting served as a platform for collaboration and advocacy, aiming to strengthen the state's approach to behavioral health and ensure that necessary resources are allocated to support these vital services.