Representative Emerson believes that a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the mental health crisis on UW campuses. While he acknowledges the recent legislative efforts, he says that more must be done to make a significant impact on the lives of students. He criticizes the passage of unfunded mandates and stresses the importance of immediate relief and an environment that prioritizes mental health.

The representative co-authored AB 588 earlier this year, which aims to provide funding for student mental health services at Universities of Wisconsin. He believes that passing this bill would enable UW campuses to hire more counselors and increase programming to help students in crisis situations and prevent others from reaching a crisis state.

Emerson has witnessed the unity of campuses around students in need and hopes that the legislature will also rally around them by providing critical funding during this time. He emphasizes that this responsibility transcends politics and requires decisive action to create a safer, more supportive environment on Wisconsin campuses.

The representative provides resources for those experiencing a mental health crisis, urging them to contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.