Interested in learning more about our FY2023-24 Budget Recommendations?
Read through as we dive into our recommendations and the accompanying Data Snapshots highlighting the challenges and opportunities Tennessee's children, youth and families face.
Every year the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth submits budget recommendations for the upcoming fiscal year to the Governor's office. In this month's newsletter, we're highlighting our key recommendations for improving the lives of children, youth and families across the state.
Fund and prioritize direct clinical mental health services in schools.
Counseling services should be provided by a Qualified Mental Health Professional, be easily available to all students and free of charge regardless of insurance status.
Increase availability of all levels of child and adolescent psychiatric treatment to appropriately address mental health concerns.
Ensure adequate funding and infrastructure is in place to address suicide hotline calls to the newly implemented 988 number.
Leverage federal funding for Medicaid reimbursement for all eligible students, not just those with IEPs.
Modeling the Governor's success with identifying and investing in distressed communities, identify and invest in communities lacking resilience infrastructure (parks, recreational centers, sidewalks, libraries).
Expand on existing investments in community infrastructure and the next generation by ensuring every Tennessee child has a safe and accessible place to play, learn and engage in constructive activities.
Implement 12 weeks of Paid Family Leave for Tennessee state employees upon qualifying events consistent with those under FMLA.
Expand Resource Centers across the state, particularly in rural areas, to support those entering the workforce while participating in Extension of Foster Care.
