PROVIDENCE – State Rep. Joseph M. McNamara, D-Warwick, has been named Legislator of the Year by the Mental Health Association of Rhode Island for his focus on mental health in legislation.
McNamara most recently pushed for legislation to make social and psychological services received by students in schools eligible for Medicaid reimbursement.
“I’ve always had a passion for mental health reform, and the need for it has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis,” said McNamara, who chairs the House Committee on Health, Education and Welfare. “I think it’s put tremendous pressure on families – particularly children – and I look forward to building upon our mental health reforms in the future.”
Laurie Marie Pisciotta, Mental Health Association of Rhode Island executive director, said McNamara has often championed local efforts to help patients and improve mental health resources.
“I know mental health is something that is dear to his heart. He’s a very empathetic representative who has helped many constituents who have mental health issues. He has worked for mental health parity, social workers in schools and co-sponsored legislation that would codify some of the protections of the Affordable Care Act into Rhode Island state law,” Pisciotta said. “He really understands the issues facing people who live with persistent mental illness.”
Elizabeth Graham is a PBN contributing writer.
