Weinstein Recognized as 2026 State Legislative Champion by Mental Health America

This week, state Senator Casey Weinstein (D-Hudson) was recognized as a 2026 State Legislative Champion by Mental Health America, the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting the mental health and well-being of all people living in the U.S. The award honors state leaders who are advancing policies that strengthen behavioral health systems, expand prevention and treatment resources, reduce barriers to care, and improve the lives of people living with mental health and substance use disorders in their states.

"I’m honored to be recognized by Mental Health America for the work we’re doing in Ohio to expand access to mental healthcare,” said Weinstein. “Mental health is a critical part of overall healthcare, and every Ohioan deserves access to quality treatment when they need it. That includes new and expecting mothers, who too often face unnecessary obstacles to receiving care. That’s why I introduced Senate Bill 352, and why I’m committed to continuing to champion policies that connect people with services earlier, reduce stigma, and build healthier communities across Ohio.”

In February 2026, Weinstein introduced S.B. 352, a bipartisan bill that would establish a statewide referral framework to ensure mothers who screen positive for a behavioral health concern during the perinatal period receive timely, direct referrals to qualified mental health providers.

2026 State Legislative Champion honorees were celebrated during Mental Health America’s Regional Policy Council meeting in Chicago on Tuesday, July 28. Established in 2009, the Regional Policy Council brings together experts across policy, industry, government, and Mental Health America’s affiliate network to advance mental health advocacy.

The 2026 awardees are: Ohio Sen. Casey Weinstein, Ohio Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel, Illinois Rep. Tracy Katz Muhl, Pennsylvania Rep. Joseph Hohenstein, Pennsylvania Sen. Nikil Saval, and New Jersey Assemblywoman Andrea Katz.