State Rep. Matthew Bierlein today said as Michigan continues to grapple with critical gaps in mental health support services, work is needed at the state level to ensure needs are addressed.

Bierlein, who chairs the House Oversight Subcommittee on Public Health and Food Security, has led hearings during the current legislative term on areas where mental health in Michigan can be shored up to get people care, including a current shortage of psychiatric beds and increased mental health services within the criminal justice system.

A man was arrested and charged in Traverse City after stabbing and injuring 11 people at a department store on Sunday. According to reports, an attorney who previously represented the attacker said he had dealt with court-recognized mental health issues and had been unable to receive formalized treatment.

“My prayers are with the victims of this senseless attack, and I appreciate the hard work of law enforcement to get to the bottom of this tragic incident and the courageous bystanders who helped stop this assailant,” Bierlein said. “Michigan is facing a growing behavioral health crisis – one that is impacting our families, hospitals and law enforcement. Far too many individuals continue to be left without treatment they desperately need. When someone in crisis can’t get help, the results can be tragic – not just for themselves, but for people around them and communities as a whole.

“This is a complex issue that has wide-reaching ramifications if unaddressed. We must continue to have tough conversations so we can bring real, actionable results for people in need and curb violence like this in our communities.”

In a committee hearing last week, Bierlein expressed appreciation to the wide range of voices – including providers, advocates, students, administrators and others who shared their insight with the committee. Bierlein said he is planning to work with the committee in the weeks ahead to compile a comprehensive report to summarize findings, outline key areas of testimony, and include both policy and legislative recommendations.

“Their knowledge on the subject, firsthand experiences, ideas, stories are what will guide us towards solutions and lives being saved,” Bierlein said.