Representative Emerson is urging a more comprehensive approach to addressing the mental health crisis on UW campuses. While he acknowledges recent legislative efforts, he believes that more action is necessary to make a significant impact on the lives of students. He criticizes the passage of unfunded mandates and emphasizes the importance of providing immediate relief and creating an environment that prioritizes mental health.
Emerson co-authored AB 588 earlier this year, a bill that would provide funding for student mental health services at Universities of Wisconsin. He believes that passing this bill would allow UW campuses to hire more counselors and increase programming to help students in crisis and prevent others from reaching a crisis situation.
The representative has witnessed firsthand the rallying of campuses around students in need and hopes that the legislature will similarly come together to provide the critical funding needed during this time. He emphasizes that this is a shared responsibility that transcends politics and calls for decisive action to create a safer, more supportive environment on Wisconsin campuses.
For those experiencing a mental health crisis, Emerson provides resources such as encouraging them to reach out to the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.