© 2024 Maine Public

Bangor Studio/Membership Department
63 Texas Ave.
Bangor, ME 04401

Lewiston Studio
1450 Lisbon St.
Lewiston, ME 04240

Portland Studio
323 Marginal Way
Portland, ME 04101

Registered 501(c)(3) EIN: 22-3171529
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Scroll down to see all available streams.

Auburn lawmaker proposes easing restrictions on opening new mental health facilities

A state representative from Auburn is proposing a bill aimed at opening more facilities to treat mental illness.

Republican state Rep. Laurel Libby's measure would repeal "Certificate of Need" requirements which she says impose a lengthy and expensive process.

In a press release, Libby says last week's mass shooting highlights the "chronic, systemic shortage" of mental health care in Maine.

Details have emerged that suspect Robert Card's mental health was deteriorating in the months prior to Wednesday's shootings.

Libby's bill would require the approval of legislative leadership in order to be taken up during the next session.