Governor Ayotte Calls for Protecting Children’s Mental Health Coverage

CONCORD, NH - During a Mental Health Awareness Month event with leaders and advocates from community mental health centers today, NAMI New Hampshire, the Department of Health and Human Services, and other mental health and recovery organizations, Governor Kelly Ayotte recognized the important work done to strengthen New Hampshire's mental health system and renewed her call for Anthem and other insurance carriers to protect coverage for children's mental health services.

"As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, I want to thank the providers, state leaders, volunteers, and advocates who are working with us to strengthen our mental health system," said Governor Ayotte. "Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and I urge Granite Staters who are struggling or know someone in need to reach out for support."

Governor Ayotte continued, "This is also an opportunity for us to talk about where we can do better, which is why I am calling on the New Hampshire House to reverse its misguided decision not to hold Anthem and other insurance carriers accountable and protect coverage for mental health services for our children. We have a responsibility to ensure our most vulnerable children have the care and support they need."

On Wednesday, after the Governor called on the House Commerce Committee to advance Senate Bill 498, which would hold Anthem and other insurance carriers accountable for protecting mental health coverage for children, the Committee chose to refer the legislation for further study. Anthem has made hollow promises for years to come to the table and find a solution with mental health care providers. Governor Ayotte refuses to let Anthem and other insurance carriers continue to let taxpayers foot the bill for their refusal to provide adequate coverage for these critical services.

"We are grateful for the Governor's commitment to mental health and her leadership in calling for all New Hampshire children to be able to access the care they need, when and where they need it," added Susan Stearns, Executive Director of NAMI New Hampshire. "Let us use this time of heightened awareness and turn it into compassionate action by calling our New Hampshire state representatives and urging them to pass SB 498. Together, we can help Granite State families impacted by mental health conditions find help and find hope."

"Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to celebrate the partnerships and collaborations that keep the state's mental health system moving forward," said Commissioner Lori Weaver of the Department of Health and Human Services. "Through the advocacy of NAMI NH and the compassionate care provided in our community mental health centers, we know what is possible when partners come together with a shared vision and commitment. Our essential partnerships and collective efforts help people find stability and hope."

New Hampshire's community mental health system provides life-saving care to patients of all ages battling mental health challenges and assists Granite Staters recovering from substance use disorders. Governor Ayotte has made supporting community mental health a key priority throughout her term.

"As president of NHCBHA, I can affirm our commitment to improving the lives of New Hampshire citizens touched by mental illness," said Maggie Pritchard, President of the New Hampshire Community Behavioral Health Association. "We stand side by side with the Governor, appreciating her passion, tenacity and support on the important legislation and votes required to further the improvements in the mental health system, including reducing barriers and supporting recovery for all".

The budget Governor Ayotte signed into law last year fully funded uncompensated care at community mental health centers, sustained funding for the 9-8-8 crisis lifeline, and supported programs that help Granite Staters in recovery from substance use disorders, including the Doorways and Recovery Friendly Workplace programs. New Hampshire also received the largest Rural Health Transformation Grant Award in New England and has made expanding access to mental health services a critical pillar of the State's program.