TUCSON, Ariz. — President Trump’s recent executive order on homelessness and mental health is a significant topic for Pima County. While the order aims to address these issues, local officials emphasize that they are already tackling many of the challenges mentioned.
Pima County Attorney Laura Conover points out that effective treatment for addiction and mental health requires more than just a government directive. “Not every homeless person is a criminal,” she explains. “Those who commit crimes must be held accountable, but we can’t paint everyone with the same brush.”
The executive order, titled “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets,” raises concerns about civil commitments, particularly regarding individuals with mental health diagnoses. Conover highlights that Tucson benefits from facilities like the Crisis Response Center (CRC), which offers essential services. The CRC handles around 700 adult visits each month, with many coming from law enforcement, helping to lighten the load on emergency rooms.
However, one of the ongoing challenges is that many unhoused individuals refuse care. “Some try to self-medicate,” Conover notes, stressing the need for professional help. She is actively addressing this gap by forming an advisory committee to better coordinate local resources.
Research shows a growing need for effective mental health support, especially among the unhoused population. According to a study from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about 20% of individuals experiencing homelessness also have a serious mental illness.
For Tucson and Pima County, securing extra funding is crucial. Conover insists on devising local policies that best serve the community, rather than waiting for federal mandates, which might not fit their needs. Building a local advisory committee will involve experts across the healthcare spectrum and hopes to enhance long-term support for those in need.
Source link
unhoused,homeless,executive order,pima county attorney,laura conover,tucson,pima county,arizona,J.D. Wallace
