A note from our Executive Director

Spring has arrived in our beautiful state. Redbud trees are blooming, and Bermuda grass is starting to grow. At the same time, we all know that it’s severe weather season and with it comes inevitable damage.  Spring brings both hope and concern. The current Oklahoma legislative session is quite similar as it pertains to mental health advocacy, full of hope and concern.

NAMI Oklahoma’s 2019 Legislative Priorities include: 1. Medicaid expansion; 2. Limiting short term limited duration insurance plans; and 3. Support criminal justice reform efforts.  

Criminal justice reform legislation is getting bi-partisan support and significant improvements appear to be very likely. This development is something to be extremely hopeful about as it reduces the likelihood of an individual’s mental health condition being criminalized.

However, concerns continue regarding short term limited duration insurance plans. Despite our best efforts overwhelming support continues among legislators to extend these plans from three months to three years. Often these plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, including mental health services, in exchange for lower premiums.  

Both hope and concern simultaneously abound in Oklahoma on the topic of Medicaid expansion. Discussions continue to occur at the Capitol about the potential of extending coverage, but no legislation appears imminent. Hope is growing through the strengthening of the Coalition to Expand Coverage which will be hosting a rally at the Capitol on 4/24/2019.   Learn more at www.coverok.org

Out of hope and concern share your thoughts about the importance of mental health care services with your legislator. You will have a perfect opportunity to do so at the My Mind Matters Recovery Rally at the Capitol on 4/25/19 (see details below). I hope to see you there! 

Regards,
Brandon Pettit
Executive Director of NAMI Oklahoma
Attention all Mental Health Advocates!
Join the Coalition of Advocates at the Oklahoma State Capitol on
Thursday, April 25, 2019 9:00am- 2:00pm
for the MY MIND MATTERS RECOVERY RALLY
CLICK HERE to view the agenda.
Who should you nominate???

The Dr. R. Murali Krishna Family Eliminate the Stigma Award was developed as a way to honor persons or organizations who have shown an outstanding contribution to the community by eliminating stigma about mental illness and improving the lives of those affected by mental illness.

Please complete nomination form by May 5, 2019.

There will be a total of $1,000 awarded - this will go to one winner or be split among two winners. The award will be presented during the opening ceremony at NAMIWalks Oklahoma on Saturday, June 1, 2019. The award is made possible by Integris.

Our largest awareness event and fundraiser of the year!
The morning of Saturday, June 1, 2019 @ Myriad Gardens in OKC
NAMIWalks OK is a family friendly, fun, event that gives us an awesome opportunity to have POSITIVE conversation about mental health! Join the NAMIWalks movement and bring along your co-workers, friends, family, and even your sweet doggies (on leash of course). Register at www.namiwalks.org/oklahoma

If you are interested in VOLUNTEER opportunities or belong to a non-profit organization that would like to be part of our health fair please contact Trisha at trisha@namioklahoma.org or call 405-601-8283 for additional information.
Lead a NAMI Family Support Group in your community!
2 day intensive training provided for free to qualified individuals
May 4 - 5, 2019 in Oklahoma City
REGISTER BY APRIL 28th!