Federal 'Cures Act' could help bring needed change to Oklahoma's mental health system, leaders say

The U.S. Senate on Wednesday passed in a bipartisan vote a bill that could make a significant impact on Oklahoma's mental health system, leaders say.

The 21st Century Cures Act includes a range of reforms that, if implemented, will help divert people with serious mental illnesses away from the criminal justice system and, instead, into treatment.

The bill Wednesday passed the Senate by a vote of 94-5. Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill 392-26. The bill will now go to President Barack Obama to be signed into law.

Mike Brose, chief empowerment officer at Mental Health Association Oklahoma, said he hopes that Oklahoma leaders see this moment as a time to step up and make changes on a state level, as well.