Bill to Delay Broome Mental Health Clinic Closure Fails

An effort to delay the announced closure of the Broome County Mental Health Clinic this year has failed.

The County Legislature Health and Human Services Committee’s three Republican members voted against a resolution ordering the clinic to remain open until at least June of 2016 while the two Democrats voted in favor of moving the bill forward.

The County Mental Health Commissioner says that private programs have taken over a large share of outpatient treatment. Officials say they are also challenged by a reduction in Medicaid reimbursement, forcing a reduction of staff.

County Mental Health Commissioner Arthur Johnson says no specific date has been set for the State Street facility to close as the agency continue to work with private providers for the transfer of clients.

Several demonstrators turned out for the committee meeting, many booing the Republican Legislators who voted against the resolution to keep the clinic open.