House Republicans and Democrats Join Together to Pass Legislation to Prevent Veteran Suicides

Statement

Congressman Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) released the following statement after the U.S. House passed H.R. 203, the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act:

"House Republicans and Democrats stood together and overwhelmingly passed the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act," Bill Johnson said. "Our veterans deserve -- and have earned -- the utmost care and support when they return home from serving our country. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that 22 veterans a day commit suicide, meaning that since we last passed this bill five weeks ago, over 750 veterans have tragically taken their own lives. This problem cannot just be passed on to someone else; these heartbreaking and preventable situations must be addressed, and this bipartisan legislation takes an important step toward addressing the mental health and well-being of our heroes."

LeeAnn Johnson, wife of Congressman Johnson, is heavily involved with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: "This is an uncomfortable issue for many to talk about, especially for some in the military community. The House taking this important action is a great step towards removing the stigma associated with suicide. Through the efforts of our legislators, advocacy, and research, we can greatly reduce these terrible tragedies, and working together, we can start to solve this puzzle and get our veterans the help they have earned."

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