NC budget cuts Charlotte mental health services

CHARLOTTE -- Officials have cut $1.5 million from mental health services in the Charlotte area after North Carolina state budget cuts reduced funds. The Charlotte Observer reported Monday that the cuts will reduce a program that supports pregnant women with substance abuse problems. Mecklenburg County officials also are delaying the opening of a crisis center by three months. County mental health officials say the department faced a $4 million shortfall as a result of county budget cuts on top of state budget cuts. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)