April 12, 2025

Governor Healey’s Budget Proposal Sparks Outcry Over Mental Health Cuts

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News Summary

Governor Maura Healey’s fiscal 2026 budget proposal has ignited significant backlash due to proposed cuts exceeding $80 million from crucial mental health programs. Local legislators and mental health professionals are concerned about the potential closure of the Three Rivers program, the state’s only facility for specialized care for children aged 6 to 12. Families, including those like the Molnar family, highlight the program’s vital role. Advocates argue that these budget cuts could severely impact mental health services across Massachusetts, as demand rises and support systems weaken.

Governor Healey’s Budget Proposal Sparks Outcry Over Mental Health Cuts

The recent budget proposal put forth by Governor Maura Healey for fiscal 2026 is facing significant backlash, particularly concerning cuts to essential mental health programs. With a proposed stripping of over $80 million from these much-needed resources, both mental health care professionals and local legislators are raising red flags.

Warning Signs of Cuts to Care

One of the most alarming aspects of the proposal is the potential closure of the only facility in the state dedicated to providing specialized care for children. The facility in question is the Three Rivers program, which has been a beacon of hope for many families for over 20 years, aiding children aged 6 to 12. The program operates under the Cutchins Programs for Children & Families and is located in a quaint area known for its serene environment, perfect for healing.

With a proposed reduction of $15.3 million in the Department of Mental Health budget, the CEO of Cutchins has emphasized the dire consequences this could have, including the potential closure of the Three Rivers program. This specialized program has made a remarkable impact on children who struggle with severe behavioral issues.

Personal Impact: A Family’s Story

Take, for example, the story of a nine-year-old boy named Tay Molnar. With severe behavioral challenges, Tay’s family turned to the Three Rivers program, which they found to be a safe haven for their child. It provided needed support and services, highlighting just how valuable this program is to families in crisis.

The Three Rivers facility can accommodate up to 12 children at a time and is funded by the state’s Department of Mental Health. As demand for mental health services continues to rise, the 7% budget increase proposed by the governor is proving to be inadequate. Many advocates are voicing their concerns that this increase will not be enough to cover essential payroll costs or allow for needed expansions of service.

Widespread Effects of Proposed Cuts

If the cuts go through, the consequences are expected to ripple through the entire mental health landscape in the area. Residential care programs for adolescents, community-based mental health services, and half of the case managers who work with approximately 7,000 individuals statewide could be significantly impacted. Case managers play a crucial role in Massachusetts’ mental health structure, and a reduction in their presence could hinder the delivery of care to those who need it most.

In the past year alone, the Department of Mental Health (DMH) provided support to about 29,000 individuals, including 4,100 youth. It’s reported that by late March, there were 50 children waiting in hospitals for a behavioral health provider bed, signaling a growing crisis that demands immediate attention and resources.

Federal Challenges and Historical Context

The possible risks don’t end there. Anticipated federal Medicaid spending cuts could exacerbate the situation if they lead to deeper reductions in the proposed DMH budget. While Governor Healey’s administration has vowed to prioritize psychiatric hospitals and funding increases for providers, advocates argue that these approaches must not come at the expense of vital community programs.

The current DMH budget for the upcoming fiscal year stands at nearly $1.28 billion, reflecting an increase from the previous year. However, many are questioning if this allocation will truly meet the needs of the community, especially given that a 2023 mental health survey revealed that nearly half of adolescents and a third of adults reported experiencing psychological distress.

Urgent Need for Change

Many voices in the community are calling for easier access to specialized programs. The Molnar family, like many others, found out about the Three Rivers program only this year and expressed concerns about the need for timely access to necessary services. As ongoing issues such as high vacancy rates and workforce shortages continue to plague the mental health system, advocates remain adamant that access to care should be improved rather than slashed. It’s clear that these proposed budget cuts could carry grave consequences for vulnerable children and their families as they navigate the complexities of mental health support.