"This agreement does not meet the needs of Iowans facing mental health challenges.
"While the press release announcing this agreement stated that the Iowa Department of Public Health and Iowa Department of Human Services will seek to identify private providers to replace the services being lost, there is no guarantee providers will be found. No detailed plan has been presented to the public to ensure the continuation of services.
"Outsourcing the services provided by these facilities is not needed because the existing workers are experienced and providing high quality mental health services. There is no valid reason for the governor to outsource these facilities unless his emphasis is on cutting costs by severely limiting services."
"The Iowa Senate has already advanced and voted on a proposal to keep these facilities open, which matches the wishes of Iowans according to a recent poll. That poll found 68% of Iowans oppose closing these facilities. These facilities should remain open so that they can continue to provide much needed mental health services to Iowans. The Iowa Senate plan is better for Iowans."
###
