TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - Florida Gov. Rick Scott says he will push to spend more money on mental health and substance abuse programs.
Scott's office announced on Monday that the governor will call for spending an additional $19 million next year on several programs aimed at helping both adults and children suffering from mental health illnesses and drug addictions.
The Department of Children and Families had already called for the spending increase in budget recommendations the agency submitted last week to the Florida Legislature. Legislators will consider Scott's request during the annual session that starts in January.
Scott said in a statement the funding is intended to help people in their communities instead of having them placed under the custody of the state.
The governor said he wants to change how mental health services are delivered in Florida.
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