OFFICIALS LEGISLATION INTEREST GROUPS PUBLIC STATEMENTS COMMITTEES VETOES

Mental Health Act

Floor Speech

Date: July 6, 2016
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Health and Health Care Government Budget and Spending

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. GUINTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to urge passage of the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, which Congressman Tim Murphy introduced into Congress. I am a proud cosponsor.

Federal mental health programs are a patchwork of antiquated programs across many agencies. Jails have become de facto mental health facilities. As a caregiver to a family member with a mental health diagnosis, I know how difficult finding proper treatment can be.

The country is also experiencing an epidemic of drug use, closely related to mental health disorders. It is time we recognize these problems for what they are: diseases creating a public health emergency.

Mr. Murphy's bill creates a leadership post at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Among other provisions, it removes legal barriers to families trying to help loved ones and provides incentives for more mental health professionals to join the field. It authorizes State grants and requires better data analysis.

Last year, for the first time in a decade, the U.S. death rate rose due to increased drug abuse and suicide. To turn the tide, I urge my colleagues to vote for the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT


Source
arrow_upward