(The Center Square) – A group of Ohio economists found that increased state spending on mental health services, research, and job development would produce greater social benefits than social costs, according to a recently released study. I think.
Scioto Analysis, a public policy analysis organization based in Columbus, investigated Twenty-two college and university economists and 18 from across the state agreed that the more money that goes into a project, the more social benefits it creates. Only one economist disagreed.
Last month, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced plans to spend millions more to expand services in mental health, job development and research. He said he plans to present the proposal to lawmakers as part of next year’s budget.
Economists say these details will be key.
“The devil is in the details, but mental health care in general seems underfunded in the United States,” said Paul Holmes, an economics professor at Ashland University.
A majority of respondents also agreed that the proposed spending increases would help reduce poverty and inequality in the state and expand employment.
At the same time, however, others took a wait-and-see approach, with no specific project details.
“The impact on poverty and inequality will depend on the implementation of programs and access to those who actually need those services,” said Professor Faria Huke of Lake Erie College.
However, some believe that increased spending levels have no impact on employment and are minor when it comes to mental health issues.
Professor Jonathan Andreas of Bluffton University said, “While unlikely to have a measurable impact on employment, if mental health services can solve problems and patients enter the workforce, there will be increased participation in the workforce. “And if employment development services allow for faster matching of employers, it will reduce frictional unemployment. A major reason to spend on health (including mental health). is about alleviating suffering and promoting prosperity, and while the impact on employment is small, it’s a strange thing to worry about.
