Emerson believes that the mental health crisis on UW campuses requires a more comprehensive approach. While he appreciates recent legislative efforts, he feels that more needs to be done to make a substantial difference in the lives of students. He criticizes the passing of unfunded mandates and emphasizes the importance of providing immediate relief and fostering an environment that prioritizes mental health.
The representative co-authored AB 588 earlier this year, a bill that would provide funding to student mental health services at Universities of Wisconsin. He believes that passing this bill would allow UW campuses to hire more counselors and increase programming to help students in crisis and prevent others from reaching a crisis situation.
Emerson has witnessed the rallying of campuses around students in need and hopes that the legislature will similarly rally around the campuses to provide the critical funding needed during this time. He emphasizes that this is a shared responsibility that transcends politics and calls for decisive action to create a safer, more supportive environment on Wisconsin campuses.
In addition, he provides resources for those experiencing a mental health crisis, encouraging them to reach out to the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.
