Mental Health America recognized State Sen. Michael Crider (R-Greenfield) as a 2023 Mental Health Legislative Champion Tuesday at its Regional Policy Council Legislative Awards Lunch in downtown Indianapolis.

Crider received this leadership award for his unwavering support for mental health care and for being the driving force behind the passage of Senate Enrolled Act 1.

SEA 1 and the new state budget work together to provide $100 million to help expand the number of certified behavioral health clinics in Indiana, establishing the next step for improving the state's mental health care system.

“Mental health care has been a legislative priority of mine for many years, and I am pleased with the amount of support this law has received," Crider said. "I am dedicated to helping our state treat mental illness and appreciate the recognition I have received for my work. There isn't a single solution for this ongoing issue, but I look forward to seeing how this initiative helps Hoosiers and how we can enhance it in the future."

Mental Health America is the nation's leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and promoting mental health care. The Regional Policy Council cultivates partnerships with Mental Health America affiliates, state policy leaders and other mental health stakeholders working to initiate, advocate for and implement state and federal policies that positively affect people living with mental health conditions. Crider was one of a slate of award recipients who addressed those in attendance at the luncheon.