June 16th, 2008

The Patriot-News editorialized today stating that, “the measure of a culture’s social conscience is the degree to which it takes care of those least able to care for themselves.”

The editorial board understands there is not nearly enough state money to fund every demand thrown the Legislatures way.  But, they point out that the mental health and mental retardation facilities often do not have a loud lobbying voice – as other interests do.  Therefore, they often get shorted in the state budget – when they need the additional funding the most. 

With funding for MH-MR and nursing homes falling way behind the rate of inflation, it is not only hard to care for those that need this help, it’s hard to find people who are able to work at a salary that simply cannot sustain a family.

A continuation of inadequate services can only lead to the entire system of these care facilities falling to pieces. “And it should go without saying that untreated mental illness represents a serious threat to the community that is not taken seriously enough.”

The Patriot says it’s time for the Legislature to pass legislation to make a cost-of-living increase mandatory every year for MH-MR and nursing care facilities.