A Senate Republican Caucus priority bill authored by State Sen. Michael Crider (R-Greenfield) that will improve access to mental health care for Hoosiers was ceremonially signed into law today at the Indiana Roundtable on Mental Health Summit.

Senate Enrolled Act 1 and the new state budget work together to provide $100 million to lay the groundwork for expanding the number of certified behavioral health clinics in Indiana, establishing the next step for improving the states mental health care system.

"After many years of working to improve Hoosiers' access to mental health care, I am pleased to see the support this bill has received and thank those who have been involved in it becoming law," said Crider. "Mental illness is an ongoing issue with no single solution. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this next phase will have on our communities and I am dedicated to continuing my work in the fight against mental illness."

The Indiana Roundtable on Mental Health Summit brings together those who can best address the mental-health crisis in Indiana. Crider was one of a slate of speakers who addressed the summit explaining the work he has done and his plans to further help the cause.

Following the implementation of the 9-8-8 National Suicide and Crisis Line last year, Indiana has made steps to improve this system to help mental-health issues affecting Hoosiers. SEA 1 will help Indiana improve access to mental-health services and infrastructure, ensuring Hoosiers have access to the resources they need.