In November, National Association on Mental Illness–Minnesota (NAMI) will name Senator David Senjem (R-Rochester) as its ‘Legislator of the Year’. The award honors Senator Senjem for his years of legislative advocacy in the area of mental health.

“Senator Senjem has been a true bipartisan champion for Minnesotans struggling with mental illness. He has the heart and the determination to take a stand– and he has delivered for his constituents and the entire state of Minnesota,” said Sue Abderholden, executive director of NAMI Minnesota. “There are few legislators as deserving of this award. We could not be more appreciative of Senator Senjem’s leadership and support.”

“I am proud, honored, and humbled to receive this award. During my time in the legislature, I have had the pleasure of working with NAMI Minnesota to really understand the needs our state is facing in the area of mental health. It’s an honor to be recognized for that work,” said Senator Senjem. “Both of my parents struggled with mental illness – and that’s a big part of the reason why I am so passionate about this issue. I want to make sure options are available for the many, many families experiencing today exactly what I grew up with.”

Senator Senjem has become a leading legislative voice in the area of mental health. In 2018, Senjem was the chief author of legislation that allocated $30 million for six mental health crisis centers across Minnesota, helping fill the dire need for additional mental health beds and take the burden off the emergency rooms and jails. In 2019, Senjem’s bill to address treatment options for individuals deemed incompetent to stand trial was signed into law, and his efforts have also helped city and county social services agencies receive a boost in funding for dealing with individuals facing mental health crises. Finally, Senjem has authored several bills to support mental health services for farmers, students, and families.

The award will be presented at the NAMI Minnesota annual conference on Saturday, November 2 at 11:30 a.m. The conference will be held at the St. Paul RiverCentre (175 W. Kellogg Blvd., Saint Paul, MN 55102).

“I think we, as a state, need to do a better job. I’m proud to play a small role in this work to reduce the stigma around mental illness and treatment,” continued Senator Senjem.

Senator David Senjem, of Rochester, represents Dodge and Olmsted counties in the Minnesota Senate. He serves as chair of the Senate Capital Investment Committee and is a former majority leader and minority leader.