Public Policy and Advocacy Committee

The overall goal of NJPRA Public Policy Committee is to advocate for a mental health system that supports the recovery of individuals who have persistent mental illnesses.  The Committee strives to play a key role in the development, implementation and funding of wellness and recovery oriented service initiatives, as well as the development of state policies, regulations and legislation that support the recovery process and the integration of behavioral and medical health services. Committee members work closely with State Officials, Legislators and other advocacy groups to achieve these objectives.

Our public policy and advocacy committee meeting will be the Third Wednesday of each month at 12pm.

For more information and to join the committee, please email Khiggs@njpra.org.

Key objectives:

• Formulate and prioritize public policy agenda for Board approval.
• Communicate advocacy strategies to our members and partners.
• Attend quarterly meetings with DMHAS Administration to advocate for psychiatric rehabilitation services and persons served in the public mental health system.
• Develop and deliver testimony at Legislative and Departmental Budget Hearings.
• Develop position statements which comment on DMHAS policies or initiatives.
• Track key bills going through the State Legislature with MBI Advocate which may impact psychiatric rehabilitation services.
• As a member of the Mental Health Coalition, communicate NJPRA’s policy positions and partner with other stakeholder groups on issues of common interest.
• Communicate NJPRA positions and advocacy efforts to membership at organizational events as well as to the public and legislators via electronic alerts, print and social media and special meetings.
• Assist the Staff Training/Conference Committee in developing institutes related to public policy.

Legislative Corner:

• NJPRA’s 1115 Waiver Testimony to the State

• S3500 Advocacy Alert

• NJPRA support Bills S1137/A1242 sponsored by Senator Vitale and Assemblyman Schaer to expand Early Intervention Support Services (EISS) Statewide.

• NJPRA respectfully requests an extension of ninety (90) days to comply with P.L.2021, c.1.; concerning State contracts for social services and supplementing Title 30 of the Revised Statutes. This would extend the deadline from September 30, 2021, to December 30, 2021.

• NJPRA suggestions for utilization of American Rescue Plan Funds.