At the State Assembly Budget Subcommittee Meeting on Public Safety, BU16 state psychiatrists Dr. Navreet Mann, M.D., and Dr. Jonathan Greenberg, M.D., along with UAPD President Dr. Stuart Bussey, M.D., J.D., gave testimony.
Our members emphasized the need for competitive wages and pay parity in light of the 140 unfilled psychiatrist positions throughout the state prison system. The effects on continuity of care for prisoners who suffer from severe mental illnesses were also discussed as we addressed the State’s decision to hire private contractors. It was also brought to the committee’s attention the differences in responsibilities of contractors and internal employees.
Watch their testimonies below: