In Support of I-185

Dear Editor,

I-185 will address problems: Mental Health. Drug Abuse. The State of Montana has a real need for more mental health providers/therapists.

At times Montana has citizens that need help- be that in times of flood, or drought, or cancer, or fire, or Alzheimer’s, or with personal behavioral health issues. In a perfect world we solve our own, but now is a time to help.

I-185 will positively affect the economy of our Montana through job creation, fewer emergency room visits, fewer jail inmates, fewer tobacco health problems, lower insurance rates, more help for Vets, lowering of suicide rates, help for seniors and disabled, and fewer sick days in the workplace. Most important is the fact that there will be more recovered patients, decreases in family stress, and more people who possess good behavioral health.

Is I-185 perfect? No. Is I-185 permanent? No. The State Legislature can change, add, or delete just as they can with any other law that has or will be passed.

Problems can be blamed on the Montana Legislature, Governor, insurance companies, feds, schools, the present health care system, individuals with behavioral health problems, or County Commissioners. But, Hey! We need solutions, not blame. I-185 can be part of a solution.

I trust you will do your research on pro and con political advertisements, to include this letter, because there have been misleading or unsubstantiated political claims. Hopefully you do the research on any item or person that appears on any election ballot.

No matter how you feel about I-185 please bring suggestions on how to address behavioral problems in our county to the Valley CARE Coalition booth at the Health and Wellness Fair this Saturday at the Civic Center from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sincerely,

Bruce Peterson