The Governor proposed $9.2 million in additional funding for the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and to make mental health crisis numbers and critical government services more accessible.
news release
Governor Gretchen Whitmer
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Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer highlighted funding in her executive budget proposal to help the state better serve Michiganders. Governor announces additional funding in proposal for Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) to better protect fundamental rights of Michiganders, investigate civil rights complaints and combat discrimination did. Additionally, the Governor proposed a $9.2 million investment to make mental health crisis lines and critical government services more accessible to Michiganders.
“Michiganders deserve a responsive state government that provides the critical services they depend on,” said Governor Whitmer. “In the fiscal year 2025 Executive Budget, I proposed a $9.2 million investment to make mental health crisis centers and government service centers more accessible. Michiganders who need help or need access to essential services like food and housing assistance will be able to receive services more efficiently. We also announced additional funding for the department to investigate complaints and fight discrimination more effectively. I will work with everyone to cut red tape and improve vital services. By investing, we will make state government work better for Michiganders.”
Services such as receiving food assistance, affordable housing, and paying bills will become widely available to low-income households. Specifically, this budget will help those in need of mental health supports and services while reducing costs. These investments are an example of how Governor Whitmer is working to make state government more inclusive by cutting red tape around our most needed programs.
Michigan Crisis and Access Line (MiCal)
The Michigan Crisis and Access Line (MiCAL) is the 988 state-wide crisis and access line. The Michigan Legislature got a head start on developing a comprehensive call center across Michigan by codifying and funding the Michigan Crisis and Access Line in 2020. MiCAL has call specialists from over 18 different counties in Michigan and is staffed by Common Ground. Located on the lower and upper peninsulas. Common Ground has more than 50 years of experience operating crisis lines and also operates facilities such as mobile crisis management and crisis stabilization units.
Michigan 211
Michigan 2-1-1 is a free, confidential service that connects Michigan residents with help and answers from thousands of health and human services agencies and resources in their communities.
Michigan Department of Civil Rights
MDCR investigates complaints of unlawful discrimination in employment, education, housing, public accommodations, law enforcement, and public services. For more information or to file a complaint by appointment, please visit our office locations at michigan.gov.
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