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Local jails have become the new social safety net for individuals with mental illnesses.

Amy Fettig, senior staff counsel on the American Civil Liberties Union's National Prison Project. The ACLU has sued several jails to demand they provide federally mandated care and improve conditions for inmates with mental illnesses.

Amy Fettig, senior staff counsel on the American Civil Liberties Union's National Prison Project. The ACLU has sued several jails to demand they provide federally mandated care and improve conditions for inmates with mental illnesses.

Daniel Luzer is GOVERNING's news editor.