We are talking about budget and policy priorities as the 2024 Legislative Session gets underway in Albany, this weekend on In Focus. JoDee Kenney was joined by Glenn Liebman, executive director of the Mental Health Association of New York State, who weighed in on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s State of the State and Budget Address, and the policies and programs his organization and other advocates say will improve access to vital services across the state. On top of ensuring that provider wages keep up with cost of living, Liebman said supporting workforce development programs can grow the number of mental health professionals and increase availability for treatment in underserved areas of New York. MHANYS encourages legislation for mental health parity with physical health, as Liebman said insurance plans vary greatly on copays, deductibles, and coverage limits.

You can watch the full interview with Glenn Liebman, executive director of the Mental Health Association of New York State via the video player above. And be sure to tune in for a look inside the biggest issues impacting Upstate New York, on In Focus with JoDee Kenney — every Sunday on Spectrum News 1.