Assembly task force to examine mental health

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A state Assembly task force called together by Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos will examine mental health issues in Wisconsin and make recommendations by the end of May.

Vos announced the task force on Wednesday and its first meeting will be Feb. 27.

News of the task force’s creation comes after Republican Gov. Scott Walker said he was going to add nearly $29 million for mental health services statewide in his budget. Vos says he is open to Walker’s proposal and he hopes the task force will work in concert with the governor.

Task force co-chairwoman Democratic Rep. Sandy Pasch says she supports Walker’s proposal but hopes he also expands Medicaid coverage which also assists those with mental illnesses.

The task force is chaired by Republican Rep. Erik Severson.