The Mental Health Association in New York State and leading statewide behavioral health and human services organizations have been rallying with legislators at the State Capitol in support of the final budget for FY 2026-27 including a 4% targeted inflationary increase (formerly known as the cost of living increase). Launched on March 17, 2026, the Photo for 4% Campaign has amassed growing support with over 100 legislators stopping by to take their picture. MHANYS and advocates will continue this weekly campaign until a final state budget is adopted.
“This campaign highlights the urgency and critical need for this funding for the community-based, behavioral health not-for-profits,” said MHANYS CEO Glenn Liebman. “These agencies are contending with rising inflationary costs to run these vital programs and recruiting and sustaining their workforce as the demand for services rises amid the mental health crisis and impending federal cuts and changes to public health insurance programs. As the Governor and Legislature work to reach a final budget, we will remain present as we work to strengthen and foster healthier communities where all are able to recover and thrive.”
“Support from more than 100 legislators from across the state sends a powerful message that the community mental health housing system matters, and the 4% Targeted Inflationary Increase is critical to retain staff, maintain safe housing, and continue delivering life-changing services,” said Emil Slane, Executive Director of the Association for Community Living. “Community-based mental health housing is one of New York’s most effective and compassionate investments, but it only works when programs are adequately funded. Our members are united in calling for the full 4% so vulnerable individuals can continue to receive safe, high-quality residential services.”
“The Human Services sector shows up every day to serve New York’s most vulnerable residents. Our collective has showed up at the Capitol day after day to stand up for them, and we salute the 100 legislators who have signed on with us for showing up for the dedicated frontline workers who make a life-changing difference every day. Now let’s see if the rest of our leaders show up and include 4% for our sector in the final budget,” said William Gettman, CEO, Northern Rivers Family of Services.
“A 4% Targeted Inflationary Increase is critical to stabilizing our workforce. This is about investing in people to ensure New Yorkers can rely on consistent, trusted support at a time when demand for services continues to grow,” said Luke Sikinyi, Vice President of Public Policy for the Alliance for Rights and Recovery. “We are deeply grateful for the support of more than 100 legislators who have recognized this need and signed on to back this effort and continue to push for this needed investment in budget negotiations.”
“Every day across New York, NAMI Helpline volunteers respond to calls from individuals, families, employers, and friends; many of whom are at a breaking point,” said James Norton, Government & Community Affairs Manager, NAMI New York State. “They are asking a simple but urgent question: Where can I get help? Ongoing challenges in sustaining the mental health workforce have left too many New Yorkers without access to the services and support they need for recovery. A Targeted Inflationary Increase is essential to ensure behavioral health professionals’ wages keep pace with rising costs, helping retain a skilled workforce and maintain critical services. We thank the legislators who are championing this initiative and standing with those who answer the call for help every day.”
This is part of a larger advocacy effort comprised of 11 statewide organizations that have come together as an ad hoc group representing adult and children service providers, families, peers, and other stakeholders to achieve common goals in the behavioral health sector. For more information, please refer to this document here.
Check out pictures from the campaign here.
About Mental Health Association in New York State
The Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) improves the lives of individuals, families, and communities by raising mental health awareness, ending stigma and discrimination, and promoting wellness and recovery. MHANYS was incorporated in 1960. We have 24 affiliates in 50 counties throughout New York State. We are an affiliate of Mental Health America.
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