Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam laid out a nearly $500 million plan to strengthen the state’s mental health and substance-abuse treatment services.
Northam spoke in Arlington Wednesday and announced the $485 million commitment to the state’s behavioral health system. He called the money a “down payment.”
If approved by lawmakers, the plan would use a combination of federal and state funds to strengthen the state’s mental health and substance-abuse treatment services.
“The pandemic has led to increases in depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and other mental health issues in Virginia and across the country, which has added to the strain on our behavioral health system and the valued people who work within it,” Northam said. “This funding package is a down payment that will significantly increase support … ”