Senator Collins Praises Passage of Bipartisan Mental Health Provision

Statement

U.S. Senator Susan Collins today applauded Senate passage of a version of the "Excellence in Mental Health Act," which she cosponsored, that would strengthen our nation's mental health services. This bill, originally introduced in the wake of the tragic shootings in Newtown, Connecticut, would expand access to community mental health services and strengthen the quality of care provided for those living with mental illness. It would establish pilot programs in eight states over the next two years. Those programs could then be extended to other states.

"Unfortunately, patients with serious mental conditions all too often lack access to care and experience difficulties obtaining appropriate and sustained treatment for their illness. Over the course of a year, fewer than half of those with severe mental disorders receive any treatment at all," said Senator Collins. "Our legislation has been endorsed by more than 50 mental health organizations, veterans' organizations, and law enforcement agencies. It takes an important step toward expanding access to care and improving quality of care so that more people living with mental illness can get the treatment they need in their communities."

The House of Representatives passed this legislation last week and it now heads to the President for his signature.

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