As a former high school mate of Irvo, his death was really devastating, and hearing that something could have been done to prevent his death just makes his loss even worse to bear. With this Bill it will help many people to have loved ones when they need it most. Let’s learn from the past mistakes and make the future better.

Writing in support of SB546. Having this law in place will bring hope and peace of mind not only to the individual experiencing a moment of crisis but for all involved stakeholders. In the moment of chaos and confusion, a familiar family member or loved one will serve to bring a calming presence, and advocacy for the individual while also contributing in ways of de-escalation rather than escalating the matter. This law will bring about better outcomes in the care of the individual.

In support of Irvo's law

In support of SB 546.

As a long time family friend to the family of the Ms. Caroline Ouko, Leon Ochieng and the late Ivor Otieno, I am hereby submitting my support for this bill. As a parent of a young man of almost a similar age with Ivor, I know what the young men are going through growing up and I would want to be there for them no matter the circumstances. If this law was in place, Ms. Caroline Ouko would have had a big role to play when Ivor needed help the most.

My name is David Barksdale family friend to Ivo Otieno. I am encouraging the committee to vote to forward bill SB546. Family members should have the opportunity to intervene when a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis. As a result of this bills passage, I believe there will be better Clinical practice and treatment of a patent in Mental Health Crisis.

My name is Jennifer Scott. I am the sister in law of Irvo Otieno. I am writing in support of this bill because family members should have an opportunity to assist and intervene in a positive manner when they have a family member in crisis. If that opportunity had been afforded to us, my brother in law would still be here with us. As we grieve, we continue to fight in hopes that other families stories do not end tragically like ours has. Please vote yes to this bill to provide critical family support to those in mental health crisis.

As a public health professional, who has studied extensively about social determinants of health, I hearby submit my petition in support of Irvo's bill. Mental health patients, especially of minority races are treated as criminals when they seek help. We need to change laws which discriminate about Mental health patients by involving family members in their de-escalation and treatment. This way, first responders and police officers don't have to use unnecessary force on someone in distress. Please pass Irvo's bill. Give Mental Health a chance, not a jail term or death sentence.

My name is Leon Ochieng and oldest brother to the late but great Irvo Otieno. Senate Bill 546 is here today because of you the Committee and Patrons. This tragedy will turn into a legacy that we all will never forget. Gov. Youngkin gave us - the family his word, that he would sign it into law if the bill makes its way to his desk. Vote Yes today to power forward SB546 knowing that it will result in better Clinical practice and treatment of a patent in Mental Health Crisis. Irvo's Law is a Law for All.