In this interview, Representative Patt Maney discusses various topics, including his role in the Florida House representing the southern end of Okaloosa County. 

He highlights his priorities, such as education, environmental issues, water quality, sewage, roads, and mental health.

Representative Maney expresses his passion for mental health reform and the need for modernization of the Baker Act, something he’s advocated for since his first year in the Florida House in 2020. 

He emphasizes the shortcomings of the current system, citing the high number of involuntary evaluations without adequate treatment and follow-up. He discusses the proposed reforms, including the requirement for a treatment plan and a warm handoff to ensure better care and stability for individuals dealing with mental health issues.

Additionally, Representative Maney touches upon a bill called Live Healthy, proposed by the Senate president, which addresses the shortage of mental health workers and calls for the creation of a medical school focused on psychiatry and mental health.

He also mentions the importance of addressing the shortage of mental health workers and beds in the state and expresses optimism about making significant progress during the current legislative session.

Towards the end of the interview, Representative Maney discusses local projects, including the creation of a civil engineering school at the University of West Florida (UWF) and anticipates its commencement in the fall of 2024.

The interview concludes with a discussion about the public’s increased engagement in legislative matters, and Representative Maney encourages constituents to contact his office for questions or feedback. 

Getting in Touch With Representative Maney 

Representative Maney has a couple of ways for you to get in touch with him and learn more about what is going on in Tallahassee from his perspective. 

Representative Maney puts out a monthly newsletter that becomes more frequent as the state legislature gets closer to the end of their session on March 8, 2024. 

You can get in touch with his office at 850-833-3713, or contact his aide, Ian Thompson via email.