Representative Emerson of Madison has issued a statement regarding the state of mental health services on UW campuses. She acknowledges the recent legislative efforts to address the mental health crisis, but emphasizes that more comprehensive measures are needed to truly make a difference for students.
Emerson expresses disappointment in the lack of genuine commitment from some of her colleagues in the legislature, who she believes are only paying lip service to mental health without taking meaningful action to improve services. She co-authored AB 588 earlier in the year, which would provide funding to student mental health services at the Universities of Wisconsin. The bill aims to reduce wait times for students seeking help and create an environment that prioritizes mental health.
Passing AB 588 would enable UW campuses to hire more counselors and increase programming to better support students in crisis and prevent others from reaching that point. Emerson emphasizes the importance of providing critical funding to campuses during this time of need, calling it a shared responsibility that goes beyond politics.
She urges the legislature to prioritize AB 588 and take decisive action to create a safer, more supportive environment on Wisconsin campuses. In closing, Emerson provides contact information for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis.