2024 NAMI Texas Voter Guide Survey
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization. We are dedicated to improving the lives of millions of Americans affected by mental illness. We strive to create a better tomorrow — a tomorrow where all people affected by mental illness can experience hope, recovery and wellness in a world free of stigma.
Texas is experiencing a shortage of mental health and recovery care providers, especially in rural and underserved areas. How will you make sure more people have access to mental health treatment and services?
As a Libertarian, I generally advocate for minimal government involvement. Even so, there are several avenues that can be considered to enhance access to mental health treatment and services. Simplifying and streamlining the licensing and credentialing process for mental health professionals reduces bureaucratic hurdles and can help increase the availability of practitioners and make it easier for new providers to enter the market. Also, leveraging the existing technology is also possible by supporting the development and expansion of digital mental health tools and telehealth services. These can provide accessible and scalable solutions for mental health support, especially in rural and underserved areas. Last (for this topic) but certainly not least, we can support community-based solutions by encouraging and even participating in community-driven initiatives such as peer support networks, local mental health awareness campaigns, and/or educational programs. These grassroots efforts can help bridge gaps in access and provide valuable support at the local level.
State and federal law requires mental health parity, or the equal treatment of mental health conditions and substance use disorders, compared to physical health conditions, in insurance plans. However, individuals in Texas still often receive unequal coverage for mental health treatment and services. What will you do to improve coverage for mental health care?
As a Libertarian who believes in limiting government involvement, this is a challenging concept but is not outside the realm of possibility. Working within the political system, I would advocate for policies that reduce barriers to mental health care, such as reducing mandates on insurance coverage that may drive up costs or creating more flexible funding options for mental health services. I would encourage employers and insurance companies to offer mental health benefits as part of their various plans. This can be done by highlighting the long-term cost saving associated with improved mental health and productivity. But as a Libertarian, I would also encourage the development of innovative and cost-effective solutions by reducing regulatory barriers that could support telehealth services, which, in turn, can provide more accessible and affordable care.
At least 30% of individuals in local Texas jails have a severe mental illness, and more than half of justice involved individuals nationwide have at least one mental health condition. What will you do to divert people with mental illness from the criminal justice system?
As a Libertarian, this would involve fostering alternatives to incarceration and encouraging solutions that respect individual liberties and promote personal responsibility. One of these alternatives would be to support and promote diversion programs that redirect individuals with mental illness away from the criminal justice system and into appropriate mental health care programs run by private organizations or community groups. I would also support the establishment of specialized mental health courts that focus on treatment rather than punishment. These courts can provide individuals with mental illness access to mental health services and support, thus reducing the likelihood of incarceration. These courts could also encourage the development of alternative sentencing options that include mental health treatment as part of the sentencing process allowing individuals to receive, they care that they need while avoiding standard incarceration. But mostly, as a Libertarian, I would advocate for decriminalization of behaviors that are often linked to untreated mental illness, such as certain low-level offenses. This can help reduce the number of individuals with mental health issues who are incarcerated.
Almost a quarter of individuals experiencing homelessness have a severe mental illness, and mental illness has been identified as the third leading cause of homelessness nationwide. How will you help people with mental illness who are struggling with housing?
As a Libertarian, my approach to helping people with mental illness who are struggling with housing or homelessness would likely emphasize personal responsibility, voluntary support, and (again) minimal government intervention. I would advocate for more community-based approaches to mental health and housing by encouraging the creation of networks of support where individuals and organizations collaborate to offer resources and services. As a member of the legislature, I would also support efforts to reduce regulatory barriers that might prevent innovative solutions to homelessness and mental health issues. For example, easing zoning laws that might allow for more affordable housing solutions. But community-based approaches would be impossible without encouraging the development of peer support groups and self-help resources. Many people find that connecting with others who have (or have had) similar experiences can be incredibly helpful.
Half of mental health conditions begin by the age of 14 and 75% begin by the age of 24, but these issues often go undetected and untreated until they reach a crisis point. How will you promote earlier intervention for people experiencing mental illness?
As a Libertarian, this would likely involve leveraging voluntary, market-based solutions rather than relying on government mandates. This could include promoting education and awareness by funding (and participating in) campaigns to educate the public about mental health issues, symptoms, and the importance of early intervention. Awareness campaigns in other contexts have helped individuals recognize signs (in this case, of mental illness) sooner and seek help earlier. I would also support training programs for teachers, employers, and community leaders to recognize the early signs of mental illness because these individuals can be instrumental in guiding those who need help toward appropriate resources. But, again, none of this really works without fostering (and participating in) peer support groups and community networks. Peer support can play a crucial role in early intervention by providing individuals with resources, encouragement, and guidance from those who have experienced (or are experiencing) similar challenges.
Texas has the highest uninsured rate in the country and has faced serious challenges in ensuring individuals in underserved areas have access to health care. What will you do to improve access to healthcare and reduce our high uninsured rate?
As a Libertarian, this can also be challenging but achievable. Models exist where patients pay directly for services rather than through insurance. Direct Primary Care (DPC) practices and mental health professionals who offer cash-based services can often provide care at a lower cost and may be more accessible, but pushing for greater transparency in healthcare pricing and quality allows consumers to make more informed choices, and the competition resulting from this transparency can lead to lower costs. Additionally, as stated earlier, reducing licensing and regulatory barriers that may prevent mental health professionals from practicing or offering their services. Streamlining these regulations can increase the supply of providers and potentially lower costs. And, again, I would support initiatives that promote early mental health awareness and preventive care. Educating the public about mental health and early intervention can reduce the long-term need for more intensive and expensive treatments later.