Daisy Berbeco

Daisy Berbeco is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Vermont House of Representatives, representing the Chittenden-21 District. Elected in 2023, Berbeco has focused her legislative efforts on issues related to mental health and substance use, leveraging her extensive background in advocacy and policy development in these areas. Her experience includes significant roles in various organizations dedicated to improving mental health services and addressing substance misuse.

Early life and career

Daisy Berbeco's early life and career are marked by a commitment to mental health advocacy and public service. Prior to her election to the Vermont House of Representatives, Berbeco dedicated six years to the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, a prominent organization based in Washington, D.C. This organization represents a vast network of over one million providers in the mental health and substance use treatment sectors. During her tenure there, Berbeco contributed to the advancement of policies and practices aimed at enhancing mental health services across the nation.

In addition to her work with the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Berbeco served as a mental health policy adviser for the State of Vermont. In this capacity, she played a crucial role in shaping state-level policies that impact mental health care and substance use treatment. Her expertise in these areas has been recognized through her involvement in various councils and committees dedicated to addressing substance misuse and mental health challenges within the state.

Berbeco's commitment to public service is further exemplified by her role as Secretary for the Finance & Policy Division of the National Association of Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD). This organization focuses on improving mental health services and advocating for policies that support mental health providers. Through her work with NASMHPD, Berbeco gained valuable insights into the financial and policy aspects of mental health care, which she has brought to her legislative role.

Moreover, Berbeco has been actively involved in Vermont's State Substance Misuse Prevention and Oversight Council and the Vermont Suicide Prevention Coalition. These positions have allowed her to collaborate with various stakeholders to develop strategies aimed at preventing substance misuse and reducing suicide rates in the state. Her extensive background in mental health advocacy has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to address these pressing issues effectively.

Legislative service

In 2023, Daisy Berbeco was elected to the Vermont House of Representatives, where she represents the Chittenden-21 District. Since taking office, she has been an active member of the House Committee on Health Care. In this role, Berbeco has the opportunity to influence legislation related to health care policies, particularly those concerning mental health and substance use. Her experience in the field positions her well to contribute to discussions and decisions that impact the health and well-being of her constituents.

Berbeco's legislative service is characterized by her focus on improving mental health services and addressing substance use issues within the state. Her background in policy development and advocacy allows her to approach these challenges with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved. As a member of the House Committee on Health Care, she engages with various stakeholders, including health care providers, community organizations, and constituents, to ensure that the needs of the community are represented in legislative discussions.

In addition to her committee work, Berbeco has been appointed to several important boards and commissions that align with her policy interests. In 2023, she joined the Executive Board of the Urban Institute's Vermont Prison Reform and Innovation Network, which focuses on reforming the state's prison system and improving outcomes for individuals involved in the criminal justice system. This role reflects her commitment to addressing the intersection of mental health, substance use, and the justice system.

Berbeco is also a member of the Vermont Judiciary Commission on Mental Health and the Courts, where she collaborates with legal and mental health professionals to enhance the integration of mental health services within the judicial system. Furthermore, she participates in the Vermont Agency of Human Services Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Steering Committee, which aims to improve access to comprehensive behavioral health services for individuals in need.

Policy focus and district

Daisy Berbeco's policy focus centers primarily on mental health and substance use, reflecting her extensive background in these areas. Her legislative efforts aim to improve access to mental health services, enhance the quality of care provided, and address the challenges associated with substance misuse. Berbeco's advocacy is informed by her experiences in both state and national organizations, allowing her to bring a well-rounded perspective to her work in the Vermont House of Representatives.

As a representative of the Chittenden-21 District, Berbeco is committed to addressing the unique needs and concerns of her constituents. The district encompasses a diverse population, and her work aims to ensure that all residents have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Berbeco's focus on mental health and substance use is particularly relevant in light of the ongoing challenges faced by communities across Vermont in these areas.

In 2024, Berbeco expanded her involvement in national discussions on behavioral health by joining the National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) Behavioral Health, Aging, and Disability Steering Committee. This position allows her to engage with policymakers from across the country to share best practices and develop strategies that can be implemented at the state level. Additionally, she is a member of the Behavioral Health Committee of the Conference of Chief Justices and the Conference of State Court Administrators, further emphasizing her commitment to improving mental health services within the judicial system.

Berbeco's dedication to mental health advocacy extends beyond her legislative role. She serves as a Justice of the Peace in Winooski, Vermont, and has been involved with the Advisory Board of the Hopi Foundation's peer-run Substance Use Prevention Center on the Hopi Reservation in Arizona. These roles demonstrate her commitment to community service and her desire to make a positive impact on mental health and substance use prevention efforts both locally and nationally.

Through her legislative service and advocacy work, Daisy Berbeco continues to focus on improving mental health and substance use policies in Vermont, ensuring that the needs of her constituents are met and that effective solutions are implemented to address these critical issues.