Mental Health
Standing up for people who are not well-connected and who have no voice is a trademark for Virg Bernero. Before serving in the State Legislature, Virg served as the Executive Director for the Michigan Association for Children with Emotional Disorders (MACED). This organization fought and advocated for vital treatment and special education services for thousands of children throughout Michigan.
Growing up in a family directly affected by mental illness, Virg gained an early understanding of how closely mental health is tied to overall health. Virg's brother suffers from schizophrenia. As a result, Virg has a unique appreciation of the many problems associated with mental health and the overall lack of available mental health care. Virg is deeply concerned for the welfare of mental health patients, and as Governor, will continue to provide help for this often-overlooked community.
As a State Legislator, Virg reached across the aisle, embracing bipartisanship, to introduce and pass landmark legislation for those coping with mental health issues. This bill, that Virg co-authored, is known as Kevin's Law. Kevin's Law allows courts to order treatment for individuals with serious mental illness who did not meet the criteria for involuntary hospitalization but who do need outpatient mental health treatment to protect themselves and others.
Read about Kevin's Law here:
Treatment Advocacy Center
Office of the Governor, Press Release