By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Missouri's Mental Health Commission has picked a familiar name to be the Department of Mental Health's new director.
Keith Schafer was named Wednesday to the very post he held from 1986 to 1994.
He will take over as the Mental Health Department is under scrutiny from both the legislative and executive branches. Gov. Matt Blunt appointed a task force to look into abuse and neglect allegations at mental health facilities. That group produced 25 recommendations, some of which are expected to be considered during the legislative session that starts in January.
Schafer's appointment is subject to Senate confirmation. He currently works in the private sector for Comprehensive NeuroScience Incorporated.