, Press Release

Chief Justice Martin Appointed Co-chair of New North Carolina Mental Health and Substance Use Task Force

Chief Justice Mark Martin has been appointed co-chair of the new North Carolina Mental Health and Substance Use Task Force.

Article contents

Chief Justice Mark Martin has been appointed co-chair of the new North Carolina Mental Health and Substance Use Task Force announced by Governor Pat McCrory on Tuesday. The Task Force will bring together the three branches of government to "submit findings and strategic recommendations for improving the lives of North Carolina youth and adults with mental illness and substance use disorders and their families." This includes examining the role of mental health and other specialty courts, and ways the justice system can best handle the cases.

"On a daily basis, courtrooms across our state serve those who struggle with mental health and substance use issues," Chief Justice Martin said. "My hope is that this Task Force will, among other things, examine the role and effectiveness of mental health and other specialty courts currently operating in North Carolina."

The Task Force will have 24 members, including the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, Secretary of the Department of Public Safety, and the Superintendent of the Department of Public Instruction. Chief Justice Martin will appoint seven members from the justice system and related private sector to serve on the Task Force.

More Information
Governor's press release and executive order

Mental health treatment courts in North Carolina

Photos from task force announcement