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DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — An Iowa lawmaker has reiterated his criticism of the planned closing of two state mental health facilities.
Rep. David Heaton, a Republican from Mount Pleasant, spoke on the House floor Tuesday about the facilities in Clarinda and Mount Pleasant. He received a standing ovation from many lawmakers.
Gov. Terry Branstad's budget proposal removes funding for two of the four state mental health facilities in Iowa. Branstad calls the facilities outdated and says patients could receive more efficient treatment elsewhere.
Heaton says the closings would force patients to travel long distances for treatment. He says medical professionals have told him there is no space available in local hospitals for additional patients.
Heaton says Branstad and the state Department of Human Services should offer more solutions as the session moves forward.
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