Local & National Issues

Every day in this country, decisions are made by our elected officials at the local, state and national levels that impact the lives of people with mental illness, either directly or indirectly. That is why NAMI is committed to making sure our leaders understand the impact of their decisions by advocating on behalf of people with serious mental illness and their loved ones.

Across the country, the more than 220,000 grassroots members of NAMI collectively provide a strong voice on these issues. And in NAMI's national office, the Department of Public Policy works primarily on the national level with the White House, key members of Congress and their staffs, and federal agencies to advocate for policies that will improve the lives of people affected by mental illness.

• Below, read more about these issues and where we stand.
  
• Take action and make your voice heard on these issues.
  
• View NAMI's public policy platform.
  
• Find legal assistance.