Sheriff Clayton Urges the U.S. Senate for Increased Mental Health Funding

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By Doug Marrin

Washtenaw County Sheriff Jerry Clayton's influence continues to grow nationally at a time when the traditional practices of law enforcement are being scrutinized and challenged. Sheriff Clayton's voice was heard most recently at a U.S. subcommittee hearing.

The hearing, "Behavioral Health and Policing: Interactions and Solutions," took place on Thursday, April 19, 2021.

One of the calls for change in policing practices is to increase funding for the inclusion of mental health experts to specific calls for service. Sheriff Clayton wrote a letter urging the committee for more community-based services to address the growing number of mental health issues.

Sheriff Clayton's letter was read into the record by Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey, Chairman of the committee. Among other requests, Sheriff Clayton asked for more funding for a continuum of response options for situations involving mental health and substance use disorders. He emphasized that where there is no threat to the public, these responses should include an option that doesn't involve law enforcement.

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