Tri-City Sun

State Rep. Matthew Bierlein has called for more action to address mental health service gaps in Michigan. Bierlein, who leads the House Oversight Subcommittee on Public Health and Food Security, has been holding hearings focused on the state's shortage of psychiatric beds and the need for better mental health support within the criminal justice system.

His comments come after an incident in Traverse City where a man was arrested and charged following a stabbing at a department store that left 11 people injured. Reports indicate that the suspect had court-recognized mental health issues but did not receive formal treatment.

“My prayers are with the victims of this senseless attack, and I appreciate the hard work of law enforcement to get to the bottom of this tragic incident and the courageous bystanders who helped stop this assailant,” Bierlein said. “Michigan is facing a growing behavioral health crisis – one that is impacting our families, hospitals and law enforcement. Far too many individuals continue to be left without treatment they desperately need. When someone in crisis can’t get help, the results can be tragic – not just for themselves, but for people around them and communities as a whole.

“This is a complex issue that has wide-reaching ramifications if unaddressed. We must continue to have tough conversations so we can bring real, actionable results for people in need and curb violence like this in our communities.”

During a recent committee hearing, Bierlein thanked various stakeholders—including providers, advocates, students, administrators—for sharing their experiences with lawmakers. He said he plans to work with his committee over the coming weeks to produce a report summarizing findings from these hearings along with policy and legislative recommendations.

“Their knowledge on the subject, firsthand experiences, ideas, stories are what will guide us towards solutions and lives being saved,” Bierlein said.