Introduction

This document identifies the issues for which NAMI North Carolina will advocate in 2003-2004 and the positions we will take. It provides background and briefing information on the issues to encourage members to talk with and educate their legislators about the issues in their home communities.

NAMI has proposed the Omnibus Mental Illness Recovery Act (OMIRA) to establish across the country a baseline of care and to spur a national movement toward improved care for individuals with mental illnesses (to view the whole act go to the NAMI Web page at www.nami.org ). The act has eight sections and reflects a model system of care based on the most effective standards and programs demonstrated to empower individuals on the road to recovery. The sections are:

• Consumer and Family-member participation in Mental Illness Service Planning
• Equitable Healthcare Coverage—Parity
• Access to Newer Medications
• Assertive Community Treatment
• Work Incentives for Persons with Severe Mental Illness
• Reduction in Life-threatening and Harmful Actions—Restraints
• Reduction in the Criminalization of Persons with Severe Mental Illness
• Access to Permanent, Safe and Affordable Housing with Appropriate Community-based Services

Below are ways North Carolina, through legislation and policy changes, can achieve the goals of OMIRA. While all issues will receive attention, some will be considered priority issues due to their timeliness, urgency, and/or our opportunity to effect change.