Many could be laid off due to mental hospital closings

Many could be laid off due to mental hospital closings

Posted: Updated:
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) -

Nearly 950 workers could be fired under a plan by the Alabama Department of Mental Health. The department is looking at closing all state mental health hospitals except for two.

Under the proposal, the new Bryce Hospital in Tuscaloosa would remain open, but under a new name.

The department's commissioner says budget cuts are forcing them to focus on community based programs.

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