Family of Michelle Go pushes to reform US mental health system: 'Michelle might still be alive'

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- PIX11 News spoke exclusively with the family of Michelle Go as they work to reform the nation's mental health system by nearly doubling the amount of Medicaid-funded psychiatric beds.

The Go family is working with U.S. Rep. Dan Goldman, a Democrat representing Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn in Congress, along with a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers.

"I think had this been in place in 2021, perhaps Michelle might still be alive with us," said Justin Go, Michelle's father.

In January of 2022, Michelle's tragic death captivated the city. She was pushed in front of an oncoming R train by Martial Simon, who had a lengthy history of trying and failing to get the mental health care he needed.

Justin Go said the decision to advocate on behalf of people like Simon is what Michelle, who often volunteered to help homeless Individuals, would have wanted.

"He was someone who should not have been there," Go said. "He should have been in a mental facility getting help. His sister told me they ran out of money, and it's sad to think someone like that is on the street."

"Our mental health crisis is growing," Goldman said.

Goldman worked with the Go family and advocates to craft the legislation. He said essentially under an arcane federal law Medicaid cannot pay for long-term mental health stays for someone under the age of 65 in facilities with more than 16 beds.

"This bill will dramatically increase the ability for those who want mental health treatment to get it," Goldman said. "It will hopefully help solve some of our homelessness, and rise in public safety issues around the city."

The "Michelle Go Act" does this by expanding Medicaid coverage to psychiatric facilities with up to 36 beds. It has broad support including from Brooklyn and Staten Island Republican U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis.

"The U.S. is ready for people to vote and pursue something that is bipartisan," Go said with hope in his voice. "Bringing more safety people in New York and elsewhere, and helping people who need the help of a mental care facility, can only bring good things to the country and the cities."

Goldman said he has strong hope the Michelle Go Act will become law by the end of the year, possibly just after the election during what's known as the "lame-duck" session.