Protection and Advocacy for Veterans Act

Floor Speech

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Mrs. ROBY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Protection and Advocacy for Veterans Act. This bill will engage our protection and advocacy agencies to ensure veterans are receiving the mental health care and substance abuse treatment they deserve.

Increased demand from veterans returning from war, a national shortage of mental health professionals, and a prescription drug abuse epidemic have made it difficult for the VA to keep pace with the growing need in these areas.

Mr. Speaker, progress is being made, but I believe we can do better. I also believe that we owe it to our veterans to look beyond the traditional means and bring all available resources to bear in ensuring access to proper care for mental health and substance abuse treatment.

For 40 years, protection and advocacy agencies have monitored the quality of care in State-operated hospitals, psychiatric wards, and other facilities. They have the authority to inspect medical records, make recommendations to providers, and, when necessary, take legal action on behalf of patients. I believe bringing this high degree of patient advocacy expertise to the VA can greatly benefit our veterans.

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