Mental Health Providers Rally Against Blue Cross Policy Change, Warning of Reduced Access to Care 

Mental health providers, patients, and advocates gathered outside Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s headquarters in Detroit to protest upcoming changes to the insurer’s mental health reimbursement policies. Protesters argue that the new rules could significantly reduce access to care by preventing many limited-license counselors, therapists, and social workers from providing covered services to Blue Cross members. 

Critics say the policy could worsen Michigan’s existing mental health workforce shortage because limited-license professionals represent a substantial portion of the state’s behavioral health workforce and often serve as an important entry point for new clinicians. Advocacy organizations and providers fear that patients could face longer wait times, fewer provider options, and disruptions in ongoing treatment. 

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan maintains that the change is part of an effort to improve quality standards and reduce fraud, waste, and abuse in healthcare billing. However, opponents view the move as a cost-cutting measure that may disproportionately affect people seeking mental health and behavioral health services. 

The protest drew support from mental health professionals, community advocates, and political leaders, highlighting growing concern about maintaining affordable and accessible mental health care for Michigan residents. 

Listen to latest ‘Connections’ Podcasts 

Real voices. Real journeys. Discover the stories that connect us. Hear powerful conversations that bring our community together and inspire better lives for all. 

Jody Nelson is a licensed master social worker and owner of Cogito Therapy LLC, located in East Lansing, MI. Jody discusses how a bizarre traumatic event, affecting his entire family during his adolescence, would go on to make him a better therapist, clinical supervisor and public speaker. Listen Here.

House Democrats Unveil Primary Care Transformation Package 

House Democrats have unveiled an eight-bill package aimed at strengthening Michigan’s primary care system by increasing investment, expanding the health care workforce, and improving access to care in underserved communities across the state. 

The “Primary Care Transformation Package,” spearheaded by Rep. Matt Longjohn (D-Portage), would require state-contracted health plans to gradually increase the share of health care spending dedicated to primary care from approximately 6% to 12% over eight years. Longjohn said three of the eight bills have been developed with bipartisan support. 

Supporters of the package point to significant primary care access challenges across Michigan. According to information presented by lawmakers, 75 of Michigan’s 83 counties include federally designated primary care shortage areas, while nearly one-third of Michigan residents lack regular access to primary care. 

“When people cannot access primary care, chronic conditions worsen, preventable illnesses become emergencies, costs rise and families suffer,” Longjohn said. He added that federal changes affecting health care funding and coverage are expected to place additional pressure on patients, providers and communities. 

Beyond increasing primary care investment, the package proposes several initiatives designed to address workforce shortages and improve long-term access to services. 

The legislation would create a Primary Care Access Commission and establish an Office of Primary Care Transformation within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The entities would be charged with monitoring primary care investment, workforce needs, provider capacity and access to services across the state. 

The package would also codify the existing MiDOCS program, which supports the recruitment and retention of physicians in underserved areas, and create a new MiNURSES program offering scholarships and student loan repayment assistance to encourage nurses to practice in communities experiencing workforce shortages. 

Other components of the package focus on building Michigan’s future health care workforce. One proposal would provide tax credits to clinicians who train future health care professionals, while another would provide grants to medical schools to develop programs introducing middle and high school students to health care careers. 

Rep. Carrie Rheingans (D-Ann Arbor) is sponsoring legislation to create the Medical Education Debt Stabilization for Students (MEDSS) program, a state-backed loan program intended to help students pursuing primary care careers continue their graduate health education when federal student loan limits do not cover the full cost of attendance. 

Rheingans noted that tuition at some of Michigan’s five medical schools can exceed $70,000 annually, creating a potential financing gap under new federal student loan limits of $50,000 per year and $200,000 overall for certain graduate health education programs. 

Taken together, the eight-bill package represents a broad effort to shift more resources toward primary and preventive care while simultaneously addressing the workforce pipeline. Supporters argue that increasing access to primary care could help identify and manage health conditions earlier, reduce reliance on more expensive emergency and specialty services, and improve health outcomes—particularly in rural and other underserved areas of Michigan. 

The legislation will now move through the legislative process, where the proposed increase in required primary care spending and the package’s workforce initiatives are expected to receive further consideration. 

No Surprises Act Arbitration Process Drives More Than $22 Billion in Additional Healthcare Costs 

A new Health Affairs analysis found that the No Surprises Act’s Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) process generated an estimated $22.4 billion in additional healthcare costs between 2022 and 2025. While the law has been successful in protecting patients from unexpected out-of-network medical bills, the arbitration process used to resolve payment disputes between insurers and providers has grown far beyond expectations.  

Key findings include: 

$15.6 billion in payments awarded above typical in-network rates.
$4.2 billion in administrative costs.
$2.7 billion in arbitration and dispute-resolution fees.

Registration Open! CMHA Annual Fall Conference 

October 26–27, 2026 |  Grand Traverse Resort, Traverse City, MI  |  Register Here

Join us in-person for the 2026 CMHA Annual Fall Conference! This event brings together 700+ CMH professionals, leaders, board members, and other partners for two days of education, connection, and collaboration. Join us at the Grand Traverse Resort to gain valuable insights from leading experts, connect with peers, and engage with exhibitors and sponsors.

Early-Bird Registration Discount Ends: Monday, October 5  |  Exhibitors & Sponsors Registration Closes: Friday, October 16  |  Conference Registration Closes: Monday, October 19

A Decade of Progress: Advancing Diversion and Crisis Response in Michigan Counties 

Michigan’s 10-year journey in strengthening mental health diversion efforts through the Sequential Intercept Model (SIM). The summit will showcase how state and local partners have worked together to divert individuals with mental health needs away from the criminal justice system and toward treatment, crisis services, and community-based supports. Discussions will focus on lessons learned, best practices, expanded access to care, and improved coordination across behavioral health, law enforcement, courts, and community partners.  

A notable aspect of the summit is the leadership and expertise provided by CMHA members. Grace Wolf, Lindsey O’Neil, Dr. Jamie Sweigart, and Tim Pierson will help highlight the critical role Michigan’s community mental health system has played in advancing diversion and crisis response initiatives. Their participation reflects CMHA’s ongoing commitment to building collaborative, person-centered approaches that improve outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health crises while strengthening county-level partnerships across the state. 

A Decade of Progress: Advancing Diversion and Crisis Response in Michigan Counties      |      Wayne State University

LifeWays Launches Mobile Crisis Van initiative following approved funding 

LifeWays is expanding access to mental health care in Jackson and Hillsdale counties through a new mobile crisis van that will bring services directly into the community. Funded by $210,000 in state support, the specially equipped vehicle will allow trained mental health professionals to respond to individuals experiencing behavioral health crises in a timely and accessible manner. The van will provide crisis intervention, mental health screenings, assessments, short-term therapy, and telehealth services in neighborhoods where residents may face transportation challenges or other barriers to receiving care.  

Mobile mental health crisis van coming to Jackson, Hillsdale Counties     |     News 10 WILX

Listen to latest ‘Connections’ Podcasts 

Real voices. Real journeys. Discover the stories that connect us. Hear powerful conversations that bring our community together and inspire better lives for all. 

Shannon Schafer, Director of the Hamtramck Drug Free Community Coalition (HDFCC), presented at the CMHA Summer Conference on “The Michigan Opioid Crisis: Responding with Naloxone.” HDFCC promotes substance use prevention through school-based education, student engagement, and community outreach, while supporting a welcoming center dedicated to serving the community.

Listen Here.

Benson-Brinks Ticket Would Make Michigan History  

Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jocelyn Benson is expected to select Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks as her running mate in the 2026 Michigan governor’s race. Brinks, a Democrat from Grand Rapids and the leader of the state Senate, would join Benson on the party’s ticket for governor and lieutenant governor. 

The pairing would be historic for Michigan, marking the first time a major party has nominated a ticket with both a woman for governor and a woman for lieutenant governor. 

Brinks brings legislative leadership experience to the ticket, while Benson, Michigan’s secretary of state, has emerged as the Democratic nominee for governor. 

Jocelyn Benson to name Winnie Brinks as running mate     |     Crain’s Detroit Business

HHS Awards Over $96 Million to Strengthen Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, and Substance Use Disorder Services 

HHS announced $96.7 million in new funding to strengthen mental health, suicide prevention, and substance use disorder services nationwide. The funding, distributed through SAMHSA, will support programs that serve people experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness, expand youth suicide prevention efforts, strengthen the behavioral health workforce, and increase access to treatment and recovery services. 

The largest share, $63.4 million, will go toward outreach and support services for individuals with serious mental illness who are homeless, helping connect them with housing, healthcare, and community-based treatment. Another $16.8 million will fund state and tribal youth suicide prevention programs focused on early intervention and reducing suicide risk among young people. 

Federal officials said the investment is aimed at expanding access to care, improving crisis response, and helping communities address growing mental health and substance use challenges. The announcement represents one of the largest federal behavioral health funding initiatives of the year. 

HHS Awards Over $96 Million to Strengthen Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, and Substance Use Disorder Services     |     HHS.gov

MDHHS Launches Internship Stipend Program to Strengthen Michigan’s Behavioral Health Workforce 

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has opened applications for its Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program from August 17-31, 2026. The program provides up to $15,000 to students completing qualifying unpaid behavioral health internships in Michigan. 

Eligible students must be enrolled in accredited U.S. bachelor’s or master’s programs in fields such as social work, counseling, psychology, behavior analysis, or marriage and family therapy. Funding amounts of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 are based on internship hour requirements. 

In exchange, recipients must agree to seek employment in Michigan providing behavioral health services to children after graduation. MDHHS has allocated $1.25 million for the program, which could support up to 73 interns. 

Applicants must have an approved Michigan internship and submit their application and required documentation by August 31, 2026. Acceptance decisions will be sent within six weeks after the deadline. 

Michigan Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program     |     MDHHS

Saginaw Community Partners Update Mental Health Crisis Guide for First Responders 

Multiple organizations in Saginaw County collaborated to update the Saginaw County First Responders Guide for Behavioral Health, a resource designed to help first responders effectively assist individuals experiencing mental health crises. The guide, originally created in 2007 by the Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority and the Saginaw County Probate Court, has been revised several times with input from first responders, mental health professionals, and community partners. Leaders say the guide helps connect people to treatment more quickly while allowing law enforcement to return to serving the broader community more efficiently. The guide is also available online for public access. 

Multiple community partners in Saginaw come together to create a mental health guide     |     SCCMHA Press Release 

CCBHC August Newsletter 

The August CCBHC Newsletter is now available! Download it here or access it directly on the CCBHC webpage under Newsletter Archives. 

MDHHS Hosting SPA Planning and State Policy Discussions with CCBHCs

MDHHS continues planning for a potential future CCBHC State Plan Amendment and is seeking clinic feedback on key design issues, including service scope, reimbursement and rebasing, sustainability, flexibility, and population impacts. The next SPA listening session is focused on Scope of Services – New Services will be held on August 18, 2026 from 12:00pm – 1:00pm ET.  CCBHC leaders who have not received an invitation but would like to participate should email MDHHS-CCBHC@Michigan.gov.   

MDHHS seeking comments on proposal to change requirements related to mobile crisis services for adults 

MDHHS recently issued a draft policy changing the “must” language related to mobile crisis teams designed to serve adults to “may”. Additionally, the timeliness standards are proposed to be changed. The proposed policy is available here. The deadline for comments is September 14.  

MDHHS announces second in HR1 and Medicaid webinar series 

MDHHS invites partners to attend a webinar, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, August. 19, to learn how the department will turn policy into practice, including who work requirements apply to, available exemptions and exclusions, ways to meet the requirements, verification processes, and other key implementation details. 

Register here: H.R. 1 and Medicaid Update – Webinar #2: From Policy to Practice 

MDHHS announces webinar on Medicaid changes for immigrants 

MDHHS recently announced a webinar designed to provide community based organizations with information related to the upcoming changes in Michigan’s Medicaid program in relation to immigrants. This webinar will be offered from 2-3pm on August 20.  

Register here: Medicaid Eligibility Changes for Certain Immigrants: What Community Based Organizations Need to Know to Help Immigrant Families 

AMCH announces Emerging Leaders Workshop  for youth ages 13-30 

The Association for Children’s Mental Health (ACMH), in partnership with Michigan’s Children, is hosting the Emerging Leaders Workshop on September 24 from 5:00 – 6:30 PM virtually. 

This free workshop is designed for Michigan youth ages 13 – 20 with lived experience of mental or behavioral health challenges who are interested in building leadership skills, exploring advocacy, connecting with peers, and discovering how their voices can create meaningful change. 

We know that the people who work alongside youth every day are some of the most important champions of opportunities like this. Your relationships, encouragement, and connection with young people can make the difference between a youth hearing about an opportunity and feeling empowered to take part. 

We would greatly appreciate your help sharing this opportunity with youth and families you work with, as well as any networks, schools, programs, or community partners who may benefit from learning about it. 

You can find more information and registration details below:
Emerging Leaders Workshop Tickets, Thursday, September 24  •  5 PM – 6:30 PM EDT | Eventbrite 

IMPART Alliance announces free training DCW training for youth and young adults 

CMHA’s longtime partner, the IMPART Alliance/MSU, has recently announced a training opportunity for young people in your community who may be interested in exploring a career in healthcare. IMPART Alliance is currently recruiting participants ages 16–26 for their FREE VIRTUAL Direct Care Worker (DCW) Training. 

This training will be held on September 15–17, 6:00–8:00 p.m. and September 22–24, 6:00–8:00 p.m., with an additional 2‑hour class in dementia and other sessions to be determined. Participants who complete all 14 hours of training will receive a $50 gift card, a certificate of completion, and the opportunity to continue taking additional IMPART DCW courses. The training is generously funded through a grant from the MDHHS Dementia and Healthy Brains Unit.

If you work with high school students, college students, young adults, job seekers, or others who may be interested in a healthcare career, we would greatly appreciate your help in sharing the attached flyer through your newsletters, social media, bulletin boards, email lists, or other communication channels. 

The training flyer can be found here. 

2026 National Latino Behavioral Health Conference announced 

The National Latino Behavioral Health Association (NLBHA) is thrilled to invite you to register for the:

2026 National Latino Behavioral Health Conference
“iJuntos Podemos! Taking Action to Improve Latino Behavioral Health”
Albuquerque, New Mexico    |    Embassy suites    |    September 9 to 11, 2026
For more information and to register click here

The conference will offer national plenary keynote speakers, feria de salud, receptions, networking opportunities, continuing education (CE’s) for licensed and credential attendees. The conference will also offer over 30 workshops related to prevention, recovery, treatment, crisis services, community engagement, and practices and programs serving Latino/Hispanic communities. Lastly, we want to inform you of the opportunity to Sponsor, Exhibit, and/or Advertise (SEA) at the conference. Together we can help the Latino/Hispanic community by training the behavioral health workforce. 

Senators Luján and Kaine Introduce HCBS Access Act to Expand In-Home Care Options for Seniors and People with Disabilities 

Senators Ben Ray Luján and Tim Kaine have introduced the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Access Act, a bill designed to expand access to long-term care services delivered in homes and communities rather than institutional settings. The legislation would make home and community-based services a mandatory Medicaid benefit, reduce or eliminate waiting lists, increase federal funding for these services, strengthen the caregiving workforce, and provide additional support and training for family caregivers. The goal is to give older adults and people with disabilities greater choice and independence by allowing them to receive care in their homes whenever possible. 

Luján, Kaine Lead Legislation to Expand Access to Home and Community-Based Care for Older Adults and People with Disabilities – Senator Ben Ray Luján 

DeBoyer Expected To Be Named James’ LG 

House Oversight Chair Jay DEBOYER (R-Clay) is expected to be U.S. Rep. John JAMES (R-Shelby Township)‘ pick for lieutenant governor. 

The Michigan Republican Party’s 10th Congressional District caucus met Wednesday night to prepare for the party’s Aug. 22 nominating convention in Mount Pleasant. At the end of the meeting, which was attended by dozens of people and held at James’ campaign office in Sterling Heights, it was indicated that DeBoyer was in line to be James’ lieutenant governor pick. 

Under that scenario, the Macomb and St. Clair county Republican parties could be in a position to help select DeBoyer’s replacement on the ballot for the 63rd House District. 

DeBoyer would still need to win approval at the Republican convention in Mount Pleasant the following weekend. 

If DeBoyer accepts the lieutenant governor nomination, he would not be able to continue seeking reelection to his 63rd District state House seat. The Republican parties in Macomb and St. Clair counties would be required to come together to select a replacement candidate, similar to what occurred when then-Rep. Brian CALLEY was tapped to become former Gov. Rick SNYDER’s lieutenant governor about 16 years ago. 

The selection would also make 2026 the first time since 1978 that Republicans did not have a woman at the top of their statewide ticket. 

DeBoyer could help James repair relationships with the party’s grassroots faction, which grew more skeptical of James after he did not participate in most primary debates and forums. 

As the former St. Clair County clerk, DeBoyer has not shied away from scrutinizing Michigan’s election operations. His oversight panel has been openly skeptical of the state’s election administration and has frequently challenged state government generally and the Secretary of State’s office in particular. 

Last May, the House voted to hold Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson in civil contempt for declining to fully comply with subpoenas seeking election training documents. The vote came after DeBoyer and House Election Integrity Committee Chair Rachelle SMIT (R-Shelbyville) repeatedly sought the documents following the 2024 election. 

DeBoyer, a Clay Republican, is a second-term House member and a key lieutenant on the House Republican leadership team. He served as St. Clair County clerk for 12 years, beginning in 2011, when 31st Circuit Court judges selected him to fill the unexpired term of Marilyn DUNN. Before that, he was elected to a four-year term as Clay Township supervisor in 2008. 

A lifelong St. Clair County resident, DeBoyer graduated from Algonac High School in 1988 and attended St. Clair County Community College from 1989 to 1990. He has been a small-business owner since 1994, specializing in engineered lumber. He is married and has two adult children.

MDHHS Hosting SPA Planning and State Policy Discussions with CCBHCs 

MDHHS continues planning for a potential future CCBHC State Plan Amendment and is seeking clinic feedback on key design issues, including service scope, reimbursement and rebasing, sustainability, flexibility, and population impacts. The next SPA listening session focused on Scope of Services – Waiver/iSPA overlap will be held on August 11, 2026 from 12:00pm – 1:00pm ET. CCBHC leaders who haven’t received an invitation and would like to participate email MDHHS-CCBHC@Michigan.gov.   

Ottawa County Voters Renew Mental Health Millage 

Ottawa County voters have approved the renewal of a dedicated mental health millage, ensuring continued funding for local mental health services over the next decade. The measure renews a 0.30-mill property tax levy for 10 years, providing ongoing support for programs that serve residents experiencing mental health challenges and behavioral health needs.  

The successful vote signals strong community backing for mental health services at a time when Michigan and communities across the nation continue to grapple with growing demand for behavioral health care. Supporters argued that maintaining a stable funding source is critical for sustaining crisis intervention, treatment programs, community-based services, and support networks that help residents access care closer to home.  

The renewal also comes amid broader discussions about mental health access in Michigan. Statewide studies have found that while access to behavioral health care has improved modestly in recent years, significant gaps remain, particularly in workforce capacity and availability of services. Many communities continue to face shortages of mental health professionals and increasing demand for treatment.  

Mental health advocates say local funding measures such as Ottawa County’s millage play a vital role in helping counties maintain services, expand crisis response programs, and reduce barriers to care.  

Community mental health organizations across Michigan serve hundreds of thousands of residents annually through a network of county-based agencies and nonprofit providers. 

MSHDA is seeking your views: Statewide Housing Plan 2.0: Help Shape the Future of Housing in Michigan 

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) is in the middle of statewide public engagement for Michigan’s next housing plan, known as Statewide Housing Plan (SHP) 2.0, and we need your voice. 

SHP 2.0 will be a collaborative blueprint that will build on the progress of the state’s first housing plan released in 2022. Public input will play a central role in developing the new plan and help inform goals and strategies for the years ahead. 

As part of our engagement efforts, we invite you to help shape the future of housing in Michigan by participating in the Michigan Statewide Housing Survey. Your survey responses will supplement what we receive through various engagement activities, such as regional listening sessions, interviews, community events, storytelling sessions, and focus groups. 

All are encouraged to share experiences, concerns, and ideas about housing in Michigan. 

If you haven’t already, please complete the survey to make your voice heard! We would greatly appreciate it if you could also circulate it to your colleagues, partners, customers, friends, and family. All Michiganders 18 years of age or older are able to take the survey. Our goal is to capture at least 5,000 responses – and we are currently only a quarter of the way there! 

Click the link to take this survey: Michigan Statewide Housing Survey 

Opportunity to participate in Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council Policy Priorities Survey 

The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council Policy Priorities Survey is designed to help us discover what issues are most important to Michigan’s Developmental Disability (DD) community. Whether you are a person with a developmental disability, a family member, a caregiver, a professional, or a passionate advocate, your participation is critical to informing us about what matters to people with developmental disabilities in Michigan. Information from this survey will be used to guide the development of our policy roadmap for 2027-2031, including messaging, advocacy, and mobilization efforts.  

Please share with interested others and take a few minutes to complete the survey.

Click the link to take this survey: Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council Policy Priorities Survey
Deadline Friday, August 21, 2026 

Federal survey shows promising trends for youth mental health and drug use 

Below are excerpts from a recent news story centered around a recent federal study on the mental health of the nation’s youth. 

A key U.S. government report on mental health, substance use and addiction showed continued improvements in several metrics, especially among young people. 

There was some uncertainty about the future of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health last year, when the entire 17-member team responsible for it was laid off by the Trump administration. But the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration released the latest report Monday, with data that lets researchers look at trends from 2021 to 2025. 

Fewer adolescents aged 12 to 17 reported using tobacco, alcohol, marijuana and binge drinking in the previous month, the survey found. 

And in the past year, fewer in that age group reported: 

— illicit drug and marijuana use
— starting drinking alcohol, vaping or marijuana
— substance, alcohol or drug use disorders 

Adolescents also saw declining trends for major depressive episodes and fewer reported serious thoughts of suicide, making a suicide plan and attempting suicide. 

Still, many young people face mental health challenges. Nearly 20% of adolescents surveyed had moderate or severe anxiety symptoms in the previous two weeks, compared with about 7% of adults over the age of 18. 

Overall, the survey found more than half of people over 12 used an illicit drug, drank alcohol, used tobacco or vaped nicotine in the previous month. That includes 44% who drank alcohol, 16% who used a tobacco product, 10% who vaped nicotine and 16% who used an illicit drug. 

The trends among young people are promising, but “there’s still a lot of work to be done,” said Robyn Oster, policy director for the Partnership to End Addiction. 

“Nearly 45 million people still have substance use disorder and still not nearly enough people are getting treatment,” Oster said. “It’s still well over 80% of people who needed it did not get substance use treatment in the past year, let alone quality treatment.” 

Full article can be found here.

California and Minnesota Medicaid Deferrals: What’s at Stake for People With Disabilities 

Below is a recent response to the deferral of Medicaid funds to states – In what is seen by many as a foreshadowing of additional actions by the federal HHS – putting Medicaid services to persons with disabilities in peril. 

The Arc responds to more than $1 billion in federal Medicaid payment deferrals and calls for fraud oversight that protects continuity of care, disability services, and community living. 

On July 21, 2026, HHS and CMS paused more than $1 billion in Medicaid payments to California and Minnesota citing the existence of fraud but without providing specific evidence of alleged fraud. This action threatens access to healthcare and community support needed by people with disabilities. The Arc of the United States is concerned that broad payment actions and sweeping fraud narratives are taking too broad an approach. The federal government’s actions limit Medicaid services for people with disabilities and their families and demonstrate a lack of understanding of what people with disabilities want: a life in the community, with as much independence as possible. 

People with disabilities must be at the center of decisions about Medicaid, not treated as collateral damage in efforts to strengthen program integrity. 

Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc of the United States, responds: 

“The federal government’s actions are troubling because the goal should be to stop fraud while protecting continuity of care for those who need it. We hear from people every day who are scared and uncertain because they don’t know if their healthcare and services will continue. When conversations begin and end with fraud allegations, people lose sight of what Medicaid actually does and who depends on it. Medicaid helps people with disabilities get out of bed in the morning, attend school, get into the workforce, and be a part of their community. It helps families balance the need to care for their loved one with daily, intense support needs, while they work to put food on the table and care for the whole family. And it provides millions of people access to health insurance. Strong oversight to weed out fraudulent activities and a strong service delivery program are not competing goals. We can and must do both.” 

CMS Launches State Toolkit to Combat Fraud in Autism Services 

CMS has released a new State Medicaid and CHIP Applied Behavioral Analysis Toolkit to help state agencies prevent and address fraud in autism services. The toolkit provides practical resources to strengthen program integrity, ensure children receive evidence-based care, and support the delivery of services by qualified providers. States can also review the accompanying CMS press release for additional details.

Michigan Supreme Court Highlights Rehabilitation and Youth Development in Juvenile Sentencing Ruling 

The Michigan Supreme Court’s decision underscores growing recognition that adolescents differ from adults in cognitive development, judgment, impulse control, and capacity for rehabilitation. In finding a 50-to-75-year sentence unconstitutional for a juvenile offender, the court emphasized that youth should be considered a mitigating factor in sentencing and that younger offenders have a greater potential for growth, treatment, and rehabilitation. The ruling reflects evolving legal and scientific understanding of adolescent development and may support sentencing approaches that prioritize rehabilitation over lengthy incarceration. 

Michigan 2026 Primary Election Recap 

Key Results and Takeaways 

Michigan’s August 5 primary election confirmed a strong anti-establishment mood among Democratic voters, particularly in legislative races. Progressive candidates outperformed expectations in several high-profile contests, especially in Kent, Ingham, Kalamazoo, and Washtenaw Counties. At the same time, many incumbents and several establishment-backed candidates successfully defended their positions, illustrating that while progressive momentum was significant, it was not universal. The election sets up a highly competitive November with major statewide and legislative battles. 

Governor 

As expected, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson easily secured the Democratic nomination, defeating Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson with more than 82% of the vote. On the Republican side, Congressman John James defeated Perry Johnson by a comfortable margin. The Benson–James matchup has been anticipated for months and is expected to dominate Michigan politics through November, with Democrats emphasizing experience and Republicans focusing on change following President Trump’s 2024 victory in Michigan. 

U.S. Senate 

The night’s marquee contest featured Abdul El-Sayed narrowly defeating Congresswoman Haley Stevens after an extremely close race. El-Sayed’s strength among younger and progressive voters, particularly in Kent, Washtenaw, and Ingham Counties, proved decisive despite Stevens’ strong institutional support. Former candidate Mallory McMorrow’s endorsement followed shortly after the race was called. 

Republican Mike Rogers, who ran unopposed, advances to face El-Sayed in what is expected to become one of the nation’s most expensive and closely watched Senate races. Republicans have already begun framing El-Sayed as too progressive, while Democrats will attempt to translate grassroots enthusiasm into general election success. 

U.S. House 

Several congressional races produced significant developments: 

◊ 4th District: State Sen. Sean McCann defeated progressive challenger Diop Harris II despite El-Sayed’s overwhelming performance in Kalamazoo County. McCann now faces incumbent Bill Huizenga. 

7th District: William Lawrence capitalized on progressive momentum, defeating two establishment-backed candidates by a wider margin than anticipated. He now challenges Rep. Tom Barrett in one of the country’s premier swing districts. 

8th District: Republican Thomas Smith unexpectedly won the nomination despite suspending his campaign weeks earlier. Democratic incumbent Kristen McDonald-Rivet remains favored in November. 

10th District: Christina Hines won a competitive Democratic primary and will face Republican Mike Bouchard Jr. for the open seat vacated by John James. 

11th District: State Sen. Jeremy Moss won decisively and is favored to replace retiring Rep. Haley Stevens. 

13th District: State Rep. Donavan McKinney defeated incumbent Shri Thanedar, making Thanedar the only incumbent U.S. House member in Michigan to lose a primary. McKinney is expected to win the safely Democratic seat in November. 

State Senate 

The Senate primaries showcased some of the strongest anti-establishment sentiment of the election. 

Democratic Highlights

SD-2: Abbas Alawieh defeated Rep. Erin Byrnes after receiving Gov. Whitmer’s endorsement. 

SD-7: Rep. Jason Hoskins won comfortably and is expected to succeed Jeremy Moss. 

SD-9: Troy Councilwoman Theresa Brooks won a competitive three-way primary and now faces Republican Sen. Mike Webber in one of the chamber’s top battlegrounds. 

SD-10: Rep. Natalie Price cruised to victory and is expected to hold the seat for Democrats. 

SD-28: Rashida Harrison upset former Whitmer aide Mark Polsdofer despite his endorsement from outgoing Sen. Sam Singh. 

SD-29: Abbie Groff-Blaszak defeated sitting Rep. Phil Skaggs, another major victory for progressive Democrats in Kent County. 

 Republican Highlights 

SD-20: Chris Moraitis won by roughly 150 votes in a closely contested Republican primary. 

SD-25: Former Rep. Andrew Beeler dominated the Republican field. 

SD-33: Rep. Gina Johnsen narrowly won a competitive four-way Republican primary. 

SD-38: Rep. David Prestin defeated Beau LaFave after one of the state’s most contentious legislative races. 

Overall, several House members successfully moved to the Senate, while a number of presumed favorites were defeated by challengers benefiting from the anti-establishment environment. 

State House 

As is often the case, the House produced numerous surprises. 

Democratic Highlights 

HD-2: Joanna Whaley decisively defeated former Rep. Frank Liberati. 

HD-4: Regina Ross won a crowded Democratic primary. 

HD-8: Incumbent Helena Scott suffered one of the night’s biggest upsets, losing to Chris Gilmer-Hill. 

HD-9: Willie Burton emerged from a crowded nine-candidate field despite former Speaker Joe Tate endorsing another candidate. 

HD-15: Jalal Abdallah unexpectedly won the Democratic nomination in an open Dearborn-area seat. 

HD-41: Progressive candidate Jen Strebs defeated establishment-backed Jessica Swartz in Kalamazoo. 

HD-80: Lily Cheng-Schulting upset establishment favorite Kris Pachla in one of the clearest examples of progressive momentum. 

HD-82: Incumbent Kristian Grant easily won a rematch against Robert Womack. 

Republican Highlights 

HD-54: A razor-thin primary between Roman Gaskey and Jeffrey Omtvedt appeared headed toward a recount. 

HD-59: Sylvia Grot emerged from a competitive three-way Republican primary. 

HD-89: Joe Moss defeated Patrick Kapenga. 

HD-90: Former Rep. Lynn Afendoulis won the Republican nomination and is favored in November. 

HD-97: Briar Bearss won a closely watched proxy contest. 

HD-101: Jaxon Deur prevailed by just over 100 votes. 

HD-108: Larry Johnson won a crowded six-way Republican primary. 

Several of these races have effectively determined the eventual winner because they are located in safely Democratic or Republican districts, while others—including HD-28 and HD-31—are expected to be among November’s most competitive House contests. 

Overall Takeaways 

Three overarching themes emerged from the primary: 

Progressive momentum was real. Victories by Abdul El-Sayed, William Lawrence, Rashida Harrison, Abbie Groff-Blaszak, Lily Cheng-Schulting, and others demonstrated that grassroots candidates could defeat well-funded or establishment-backed opponents. 

The trend was not universal. Candidates such as Sean McCann, Jeremy Moss, Justin Onwenu, and Joanna Whaley showed that strong, well-organized establishment campaigns could still prevail. 

November’s narrative is already taking shape. Republicans are expected to campaign aggressively against what they characterize as progressive or “socialist” policies, while Democrats will seek to harness the energy generated by the primary electorate. With competitive races for Governor, U.S. Senate, several congressional districts, and legislative control, Michigan is poised to remain one of the nation’s premier political battlegrounds through Election Day. 

Attendee & Exhibitor/Sponsor Registration Open 27th Annual Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorder Conference

This conference attracts upwards of 1,200 in-person and virtual attendees including board members, oversight policy board members, administrators, financial directors, medical directors, clinical directors, prevention, treatment and recovery professionals, case managers, recovery coaches and those with lived expertise. This educational opportunity is intended for providers in the substance use and co-occurring disorders field at all levels of practice (beginning, intermediate, and advanced). Join us at CMHA’s largest conference to gain knowledge from leading experts in the SUD/COD field and engage with peers and exhibitors! 

Pre-Conference Sept. 27, 2026 in-person only    |    Main Conference Sept. 28-29, 2026 in-person or virtual    |    Lansing Center 

Attendees Register Here Early Bird Discount Rate ends August 23    |    Exhibitors and Sponsors Register Here 

Registration Open 33rd Recipient Rights Conference

Exciting news – registration is now open! Click below to register for the event, get details on reserving your room, and to be part of this amazing conference!  

Sept. 16-18, 2026  |  Crystal Mountain Resort  |  Register Here 

Myths Metrics and Meaning: Measurement-Based Care Skills for Everyday Practice     

CMHIS is hosting a set of free national implementation support events focused on strengthening effective mental health practices across the country. Each Hub is offering activities on preparing for, implementing, and sustaining services. Learn more about the following event being offered in September! 

Myths Metrics and Meaning: Measurement-Based Care Skills for Everyday Practice    
Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026
12–1:30 p.m. PT, 1–2:30 p.m. MT, 2–3:30 p.m. CT, 3–4:30 p.m. ET
You can learn more and sign up here.

Join the East Coast Hub for a 90-minute national event designed to introduce practical, beginner-level strategies for using Measurement-Based Care (MBC) within community and behavioral health settings.  

MBC is a practical approach that uses client-reported progress and outcome measures to guide personalized mental health treatment. This 90-minute virtual training will introduce the Collect, Share, Act model of MBC, explain how it differs from screening and outcome monitoring, and provide skills for using standardized measures to support client engagement, shared decision-making, and improved treatment outcomes. Participants will learn through brief instruction, interactive activities, and peer discussions. 

Identifying and Addressing Underlying Causes of School Staff Well-Being    

Navigating the Now is a set of five thoughtfully planned, national learning events featuring dynamic speakers who bring timely, relevant mental health topics to life through the lens of implementation science. Each event will explore real-world pain points and current themes. Check out this new series starting in September!  

Identifying and Addressing Underlying Causes of School Staff Well-Being
Fridays (Sept. 11, Sept. 18, and Sept. 25, 2026)
10–11 a.m. PT, 11 a.m.–12 MT, 12–1 p.m. CT, 1–2 p.m. ET
Learn more and sign up here. 

Staff stress and burnout aren’t just a wellness issue – they’re a school climate issue, a retention issue, and ultimately a student outcomes issue. Join the Midwest Hub for this three-part series that gives school leaders a practical road map for getting to the root of the problem. School and district leaders, and anyone responsible for driving implementation of staff support initiatives, are especially encouraged to sign up.  

Led by Drs. Cheryl Holm-Hansen and Mark Sander of the Midwest Center for School Mental Health, participants will move past surface-level fixes and learn research-based strategies in organizational change management, workload analysis, and psychologically healthy leadership. By the end of the series, participants will walk away with a concrete plan for assessing their school’s needs, matching those needs to proven strategies, and taking the next step forward.   

Because when staff have what they need to thrive, everyone benefits – educators, school climate, and student success.  

CCBHC-T Finance TA Module Now Available 

Registration is now open for the new Cost Report Management and Optimization TA module, delivered by CohnReznick. The module will help CCBHCs strengthen allowable cost reporting, financial proformas, management systems, multi-year projections, sustainability planning, and PPS rate rebasing. Two group trainings will be followed by optional individualized support: 

Training 1: August 20, 1:30–2:30 p.m. ET
Training 2: August 25, 12:30–1:30 p.m. ET 

Registration for either session automatically registers participants for both. Find more information here.   

Leadership change at CMH of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties 

Below are excerpts of a recent announcement off the upcoming leadership change at the Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CEI). We wish Sara Lurie the best in the next phase in her life and Gwenda Summers the best as she steps into this new role. 

From Sara Lurie, CEO 

I am pleased to share that the hiring process to select our next CMHA-CEI Chief Executive Officer has been completed. After a comprehensive search, Gwenda Summers, Director of Families Forward, has accepted the position of Chief Executive Officer. 

Gwenda has deep experience, vision, and commitment to the mission of the public behavioral health system and those we serve. I am confident that you will find her to be a strong partner in our important work together. I know you will join me in congratulating Gwenda on this well-deserved appointment and supporting her as she prepares to assume this important leadership role. 

Wellvance receives Workplace Mental Health award 

Below are excerpts from a recent announcement, by Wellvance, of the receipt of the 2026 Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health. Congratulations to Wellvance and its team.  

Mental Health America (MHA), the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health, well-being, and prevention, has recognized Wellvance as a 2026 Gold recipient of the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health. 

The Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health is the nation’s leading recognition for U.S. employers committed to creating mentally healthy workplaces. Receiving this recognition affirms our ongoing efforts to prioritize employee well-being and challenges us to continue strengthening our workplace culture. Completing this thoughtful review of our policies and practices was a part of our grant workplan for Trauma-Informed Care. We also appreciate every employee who has shared feedback, ideas, and suggestions to help improve mental well-being at work. 

Our 2026 Gold recognition reflects our work and efforts across key areas, including:  

Our strategic and holistic approach to employee well-being
Mental health-friendly benefits and resources
A strong emphasis on work-life balance
Our commitment to a fair and accessible workforce 

Listen to latest ‘Connections’ Podcasts 

Real voices. Real journeys. Discover the stories that connect us. Hear powerful conversations that bring our community together and inspire better lives for all. 

Susan Svetcos reflects on how her brother’s departure for military service, along with other life challenges, coincided with her first episode of depression. In sharing her story with honesty and vulnerability, Susan demonstrates the resilience that has shaped her into the warm, compassionate person she is today. Listen Here. 

MDHHS launches Recovery Housing Assistance Fund to support long-term recovery and housing stability 

Below are excerpts from a recent press release from MDHHS regarding the newly established Recovery Housing Assistance Fund. 

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has launched the Recovery Housing Assistance Fund (RHF), a new program designed to help individuals undergoing substance use disorder treatment or who are in recovery secure stable living arrangements.   

RHF helps support eligible individuals and families as they transition into recovery housing or permanent housing. Funded through $3.5 million from the Michigan Opioid Healing and Recovery Fund, RHF is part of Michigan’s broader strategy to support opioid prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery services. Since it began in June, the program has helped 24 individuals.  

RHF provides critical financial assistance of up to $4,000 to prevent housing instability and reduce the risk of homelessness. Eligible expenses may include emergency funding to avoid eviction or utility shutoffs, as well as support for first month’s rent, security deposits and other approved costs connected to securing stable housing. Funding requests may be submitted through eligible treatment providers and Recovery Community Organizations. Payments will be made directly to landlords, utility companies and other approved vendors.   

For more information about the RHF program, visit the settlement spending webpage.   

Additional information about proposed programming under Michigan’s Opioids Healing and Recovery Fund can be found on the opioids settlement website. Michigan is slated to receive more than $1.8 billion from national opioid settlements by 2040, with half being distributed to the State of Michigan and the other half being distributed directly to county, city and township governments across the state. 

For more information about substance use disorder resources, visit Michigan.gov/SUD. 

Michigan Suicide Prevention Council Initiative 

CMHA currently participates on the Michigan Suicide Prevention Council, which was established to strengthen and coordinate suicide prevention efforts across the state and support implementation of the Michigan Suicide Prevention Plan (2024-2027). The Council brings together representatives from health care, education, public health, community mental health, tribal communities, veterans’ services, law enforcement, advocacy organizations, and individuals with lived experience to guide statewide policy, promote best practices, and improve cross-sector collaboration. 

The Council is currently in the planning and infrastructure development phase. An initial state appropriation of $125,000 has been used to establish the Council, support strategic planning, convene stakeholders, build capacity, and develop resources. Most of the funding is supporting facilitation and technical assistance through the University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center. 

Health Affairs finds hindered access to youth mental health linked to private Medicaid Managed Care  

Below is a summary of a recent Health Affairs research article underscoring the poor performance in ensuring needed mental healthcare to youth by large Medicaid managed care companies.  

Health Affairs has published a behavioral health care research article entitled Corporate Consolidation and The Youth Mental Health has published a Crisis: Evidence from Medicaid Managed Care In 2022. “Medicaid managed care organizations serve as the primary vehicle for delivering behavioral health services to low-income youth. However, market consolidation has shifted enrollment toward a handful of large national parent firms. Understanding the implications of this shift is critical for identifying and closing gaps in adolescent mental health services. Using national Medicaid claims data from 2022, we examined the associations between managed care organization ownership by five major parent firms and measures of youth mental health service use and provider composition.  

Managed care organizations owned by large national parent firms were characterized by lower mental health screening rates and, for most firms, higher use of emergency department, inpatient, and medication-based care, including psychotropic prescribing without psychotherapy.  

Provider composition also varied by firm, suggesting differences in how these organizations structure their behavioral health networks, with some relying more heavily on psychiatrists and psychologists and others depending more on master’s-level therapists. The growing influence of large national parent firms in shaping behavioral health access for Medicaid-enrolled youth underscores the need for closer scrutiny of how managed care structures serve youth with significant mental health needs.”  

The full article is available here.

Federal Social Safety Net Programs: Millions of Workers, Including Many Employed by Large Employers, Continue to Rely on Medicaid and SNAP 

Below is a summary of a recent federal General Accounting Office (GAO) study that found that many American adults, most of them working full time and for some of this country’s largest employers, earn so little that they rely on federal programs to make ends meet, such as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. 

Millions of American adults earn so little that they rely on federal programs to make ends meet, such as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. 

To learn more about the working adults who used these programs in 2024, we analyzed employment data from 11 states and Census data. 

We found: 

About two-thirds worked full time
Most worked for private sector employers
Workers were largely in transportation, restaurants and food prep, and retail sales jobs
Some employers in selected states had thousands of beneficiaries on their payrolls 

The full article can be found here.

CMS Community Engagement Resource Page 

The CMS Community Engagement webpage serves as the federal implementation hub for the new Medicaid community engagement requirement established by the Working Families Tax Cut legislation. The page outlines CMS guidance, implementation resources, policy documents, technical assistance, and state support materials related to the requirement. CMS describes community engagement as participation in employment, education, or volunteer activities that can support self-sufficiency and community involvement. 

Democrats Reintroduce Nine Previously Vetoed Bills; Puri Focused on Moving Forward 

House Minority Leader Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton) said Democrats are focused on advancing legislation rather than investigating how nine bills from the 2024 legislative session failed to reach Governor Gretchen Whitmer before the change in House leadership. Puri said his priority is working with Republicans where possible and preparing to regain the House majority in November, emphasizing a forward-looking approach rather than revisiting past procedural issues. 

The legislation was reintroduced following Governor Whitmer’s July 10 veto of the original nine bills after the Michigan Supreme Court ordered House Speaker Matt Hall to present them 18 months after passage. All nine bills were reintroduced in the Senate, with five companion bills introduced in the House. 

The package includes legislation to: 

– Expand collective bargaining over public employee health insurance costs.
– Allow certain state employees to join the Michigan State Police pension system.
– Authorize Southeast Michigan voters to approve property tax millages supporting the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and the Detroit Historical Society.
– Increase protections preventing certain public benefits and other funds from being garnished to satisfy debts.  

Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks said Democrats remain committed to advancing the measures despite skepticism that they will receive action in the Republican-controlled House this term. 

Speaker Matt Hall questioned why Democrats waited until now to reintroduce the bills, arguing they should have negotiated them earlier in the legislative session. While he did not rule out considering the legislation, Hall said any proposal expanding collective bargaining over health insurance costs would require identifying additional budget savings to offset increased costs for local governments, schools, and universities, stating that Republicans would not support tax increases to fund the changes. 

Upcoming CMHIS Learning Opportunities: Peer Support Implementation 

The national Center for Mental Health Implementation Support (CMHIS), of which CMHA is a longtime partner, invites organizations interested in strengthening or expanding peer support services to join two upcoming virtual learning opportunities offered through the Midwest Hub of the Center for Mental Health Implementation Support (CMHIS). These sessions are designed for leaders, administrators, and implementation teams who want to learn more about peer support implementation and available technical assistance opportunities. 

Peer Support Implementation Town Hall
Date: August 12, 2026 | 10:00–11:00 a.m. CDT
Join an interactive discussion focused on peer support implementation. This session is an opportunity to share questions, discuss barriers, and identify what organizations need to successfully implement peer support services. Feedback from participants will help shape future training and technical assistance offerings.  

Peer Support Implementation Overview, Self-Assessment & Introduction to Additional Learning Opportunity
Dates: August 19 and August 26, 2026 | 10:00–11:00 a.m. CDT
This two-part series will:
– Introduce the basics of peer support implementation
– Provide an overview of an upcoming Peer Support Implementation Academy
– Guide organizations through a readiness self-assessment

Help organizations determine whether they have the capacity and interest to participate in additional implementation support, including the NIATx online course and team coaching model. 

Older Michiganders Increasingly Aware of the 988 Crisis Lifeline 

A recent University of Michigan report found that many older Michiganders are becoming more aware of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and recognize the importance of having immediate access to mental health crisis support. The findings highlight growing confidence in 988 as a resource for individuals experiencing mental health, emotional, or substance use crises, as well as for family members seeking help for loved ones. The report found here underscores the value of expanding awareness and education efforts to ensure older adults know where to turn for timely, compassionate support during times of need. 

Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority (SCCMHA) Awarded Three-Year CARF Accreditation 

Below are excerpts from a recent press release from Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority regarding the receipt, by SCCMHA of a three-year CARF accreditation.  

Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority (SCCMHA) received notice that they were awarded another Three-Year Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).  

This is the eighth three-year accreditation that the international accrediting body has awarded to SCCMHA. 

This accreditation outcome represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization and shows the organization’s substantial accordance to the standards established by CARF. An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality. 

“We are very happy to once again be awarded this accreditation,” says SCCMHA CEO Sandra Lindsey. “For us to receive this recognition, it shows to the individuals we serve and their families that SCCMHA is committed to continuing to provide quality service and programs to help them in their mental health journeys.” 

The three-year accreditation will run through May 31, 2029.

For a complete copy of the survey report, contact SCCMHA at (989) 797-3400. 

Walk A Mile Rally scheduled to take place at the Capitol in Lansing on September 23! 

Each year more than 1,500 advocates from across Michigan gather at the State Capitol to support public behavioral healthcare. This rally aims to highlight the need for increased funding for mental health services, raises awareness of behavioral health needs in health and policy discussions, and works to remove behavioral health stigmas. Join us this year on September 23, 2026, as we rally for increased mental health funding and the need for behavioral health to be continually included in policy discussions! You can find the Walk A Mile Informational Packet HERE!  

Listen to latest ‘Connections’ Podcasts 

Real voices. Real journeys. Discover the stories that connect us. Hear powerful conversations that bring our community together and inspire better lives for all. 

Christine has more than 30 years of experience in public relations, crisis management, and community education. She invites others into shared understanding through her lived experiences with honesty and humility. Her words inspire reflection and gently awaken a sense of possibility among those who listen. Listen Here. 

CMHA Launches NEW Action Alert: Michigan Voters Oppose Mental Health Privatization

The Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHA) has launched a new Action Alert following the release of a statewide poll showing strong voter opposition to privatizing Michigan’s public behavioral health system. 

The independent survey of likely November 2026 voters found that 70% oppose shifting Medicaid behavioral health services to private health insurance companies, while 69% oppose eliminating local control of the public mental health system. Nearly half of voters (49%) also said they would be less likely to support a candidate who favors privatization. 

The Action Alert comes as the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently announced on the State of Michigan procurement website that it intends to release a new Prepaid Inpatient Health Plan (PIHP) Request for Proposals (RFP) in August. 

CMHA is asking members and supporters to contact their House and Senate legislators, as well as Governor Whitmer, and urge them to oppose issuing another PIHP RFP during the final months of the current administration. The message is clear: Michigan voters continue to support a locally accountable, publicly governed behavioral health system rather than turning it over to private insurance companies. 

To take action now! Click on the link below:
Advocacy – CMHAM – Community Mental Health Association of Michigan 

MDHHS issues Juvenile Residential Facilities Advisory Committee Recommendations 

Below is a recent announcement from MDHHS on its Juvenile Residential Facilities Advisory Committee (RAC) Recommendations: 

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ (MDHHS) Bureau of Juvenile Justice is pleased to share the recommendations developed by the Juvenile Residential Facilities Advisory Committee (RAC). Attached, you will find the full RAC recommendations report. The report is also available online here.  

The RAC recommendations underscore Michigan’s commitment to serving all justice‑involved youth and families and reinforces the mission to provide equitable access to safe, supportive, and respectful care. Together, this broad committee of court representatives, facility leaders, individuals with lived experience and additional subject matter experts merged bold ideas, identifying opportunities to reshape the youth justice residential treatment continuum. Ultimately the RAC’s four priority recommendations address emerging concerns to match youth with appropriate placements, ensure consistent program delivery, streamline bed management, and improve program fidelity.  

Meaningful reform where all youth receive safe, supportive, and dignified care requires shared commitment, aligned efforts and open communication across the collective system of partners.   

We invite you to share these recommendations across your networks to help ensure broad awareness, strengthen cross‑system coordination, and support unified action. 

The full report can be found here.  

CHCS blog: State Innovations in Improving Access to Care for Adults with Complex Needs in Rural Communities 

Below is a recent announcement from the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) on State Innovations in Improving Access to Care for Adults with Complex Needs in Rural Communities: 

People with complex health and social needs often face significant barriers to accessing care in rural communities, including provider shortages, limited transportation options, and fragmented services. Recent federal investments, including the Rural Health Transformation Program, combined with innovation at the state and local levels, have created momentum for states to address these longstanding challenges and expand access to promising solutions. 
 
This brief, made possible with support from The SCAN Foundation, examines Medicaid innovations in California, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Virginia that are improving access to care for adults with complex needs living in rural areas. Drawing on a CHCS literature review, interviews with state leaders, and a convening of national experts, the brief explores three promising strategies: establishing care coordination entities, strengthening provider capacity, and expanding transportation options. 

The full blog post can be found here. 

Strengthening Protections for Michigan Mental Health Patients 

Michigan lawmakers have introduced a package of bills aimed at improving oversight, safety, and accountability within the state’s mental health hospitals. The legislation was developed in response to findings from a state audit that identified delays in responding to abuse and neglect complaints, gaps in documentation, and issues with surveillance systems. Supporters say the proposed reforms will help ensure timely investigations, enhance patient protections, and restore trust for families who rely on Michigan’s mental health care system, particularly for vulnerable children and individuals receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment.

Manhattan Institute issues report “Reining in Medicaid Managed Care” 

Below is the Executive Summary of a recent Manhattan Institute analysis of Medicaid Managed Care. The report provides a fact-based critique of Medicaid Managed Care approaches. 

When Medicaid, the U.S. program that purchases health care for the poorest Americans, originally went into effect, states paid directly for health-care services provided to beneficiaries. But in recent decades, states increasingly subcontract procurement to private insurers known as managed care organizations (MCOs). From 1992 to 2022, the proportion of Medicaid beneficiaries enrolled in MCOs increased from 9% to 77%. This health-care delivery system of state Medicaid agencies contracting with MCOs is called Medicaid managed care (MMC). 

Private insurers design benefits, raise funds, manage risk, and develop networks of providers to treat their policyholders. But in MMC, the government dictates the bulk of benefits, provides all of the revenue, carries most of the risk, and largely determines the terms of payment to medical providers. 

States argue that their employment of MCOs reduces costs and improves benefits. However, payments to these private insurers are usually not set through competitive bidding; the nature of plan expenditures cannot easily be compared from state to state; and there is little evidence of savings being passed on to taxpayers. In fact, the lack of transparency has encouraged states to increasingly use MCOs to bypass traditional restrictions on the amount and purposes for which they can claim federal Medicaid matching funding. 

Federal policymakers have exempted MMC from many regulatory constraints on payments for Medicaid services under the assumption that it is inherently more cost-effective. This is a mistake. Payments made to Medicaid MCOs should be subject to stricter federal controls and their activities subject to much greater transparency. This will ensure that Medicaid’s structure gives taxpayers the best value for money. 

The full article can be found here.  

CHCS blog: The Impact of Social Media on Children’s Behavioral Health 

Below is a recent announcement from the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) on The Impact of Social Media on Children’s Behavioral Health: 

Over the last 15 years, social media, smartphones, and other digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) have become pervasive in the lives of children and youth. While digital platforms can offer opportunities for connection, growing evidence suggests that social media can also negatively affect children’s behavioral health. In response, policymakers at the national, state, and local levels have advanced efforts to address concerns about the impacts of social media on youth well-being. 
 
The Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) recently convened cross-sector stakeholders in Middlesex County, New Jersey, to examine the impacts of social media on children and youth and explore prevention-focused strategies. This blog post explores key themes from that convening through a conversation with Stephanie Marcello, PhD, Assistant Vice President of Academics, Integration and Innovation at the Behavioral Health Research and Training Institute at Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care. Dr. Marcello shares insights on how families, providers, educators, and communities can help children and youth develop healthy relationships with social media and technology 

The full blog post can be found here. 

Michigan: Deloitte-run systems denied Medicaid to disabled people. New laws could make it worse 

Below are excerpts from a recent National Public Radio story regarding the denials of Medicaid coverage, received by Michiganders with disabilities – denials caused by the automated algorithms used by MDHHS to determine Medicaid eligibility.  

Deloitte, a multibillion-dollar global consulting firm, has operated Michigan’s Medicaid eligibility system under contracts worth roughly $768 million since 2006, according to contracts reviewed by KFF Health News. Nationwide, Deloitte dominates this important slice of government business: At least 25 states have awarded the company contracts to build or run computer systems that control access to safety net benefits such as Medicaid. 

Michigan’s system has incorrectly directed people with disabilities into skimpier benefits that cover limited care or denied coverage completely, a KFF Health News investigation found. Similar problems were at the center of a class-action suit in Tennessee, court documents show, and have occurred in Texas, according to interviews and state records. 

The full article can be found here.

MDHHS Prepares Healthy Michigan Plan Members for New Federal Medicaid Work Requirements 

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is informing Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP) beneficiaries about upcoming federally mandated Medicaid changes resulting from H.R. 1. Beginning in January 2027, some adults ages 19–64 will need to meet work, school, volunteer, or job-training requirements—or qualify for an exemption—to maintain coverage. Additionally, most HMP members will move from annual to six-month eligibility renewals. MDHHS is launching outreach efforts and encouraging beneficiaries to keep their information updated and watch for official notices to help ensure eligible residents maintain their health care coverage. 

The full press release can be found here.

Whitmer Signs FY2027 Budget Following Bipartisan Agreement 

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed Michigan’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget, calling it a balanced spending plan that required difficult decisions amid growing fiscal pressures, including increased state costs associated with the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1). 

The enacted budget was initially presented as a $75.2 billion spending plan, though additional federal Medicaid funding included in the boilerplate language has prompted outside analyses to estimate total spending at approximately $86.4 billion. The budget has also drawn scrutiny from fiscal analysts, including the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, which has suggested the budget may be $600 million to $900 million below projected funding needs. 

Whitmer said the budget protects key priorities by funding Medicaid and SNAP administration, investing in roads and job creation, and helping Michigan families manage higher costs. 

Legislative leaders from both parties praised the bipartisan agreement. House Speaker Matt Hall highlighted continued efforts to reduce spending, eliminate waste, and redirect resources toward roads, schools, and public safety. Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks said the budget protects health care and food assistance while continuing investments in affordable housing and economic opportunity.

Whitmer Urges Legislature to Revisit Vetoed Bills 

Governor Gretchen Whitmer said there is still time this year for the Legislature to reintroduce and pass some of the nine bills she recently vetoed after they were delayed for nearly 18 months. 

Whitmer blamed House Republicans for withholding the bills following the 2023-24 legislative session, arguing the lengthy delay made it impossible to sign them because statutory deadlines had passed, other laws had since taken effect, and several measures carried significant budget implications. She said that had the bills been presented on time, “we would be having a different conversation today.” 

The nine bills were finally sent to the Governor after the Michigan Supreme Court allowed a Court of Appeals ruling to stand, requiring House Speaker Matt Hall to present the legislation. Whitmer ultimately vetoed the bills, citing the practical and legal challenges created by the delay. 

Despite the vetoes, Whitmer said she believes there is bipartisan support to revisit several of the proposals before the end of the year. Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks echoed that sentiment, expressing hope that updated versions of the bills can be passed with the Governor’s support. The measures included proposals affecting public employee health insurance contributions, pension benefits for certain state employees, protections for the Earned Income Tax Credit from debt collection, and local ballot questions supporting cultural institutions.