Veterans Information Modernization Act

Floor Speech

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I thank the chairman.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2256, the Veterans Information Modernization Act.

This bill makes positive, bipartisan reforms to the VA, which has become the hallmark of the Veterans' Affairs Committee.

We have such a good committee, Mr. Speaker. I am particularly pleased about the inclusion of my bill, H.R. 271, the Creating Options for Veterans Expedited Recovery Act, better known as the COVER Act.

Last year the Veterans' Affairs Committee held a hearing regarding veterans' access to the VA's mental health services. At the hearing, we heard from the mothers and fathers of deceased veterans.

I remember vividly how hearing their testimony moved me. I can't remember another instance when the Veterans' Affairs Committee room was so quiet and solemn as on that day.

Statistics show that one in five veterans who serves in Iraq and Afghanistan has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress. Now we must responsibly ask ourselves: Are we doing enough when it comes to addressing mental health in our veteran population?

Recent data has shown that every day in this country approximately 18 to 22 veterans take their own lives. This statistic answers the question I posed earlier. It is obvious more needs to be done.

Far too often we have heard of situations in which our veterans are being overprescribed opioids and antipsychotics. While traditional forms of therapies may work for some, tailoring therapies to the veterans and finding the balance between traditional and complementary, alternative treatments could be the difference in saving lives.

Late last year I met with a veteran who was able to tell me just how much alternative treatments have improved his life. His treatment plan to address his PTS and physical injuries consisted of over 30 different pills every day. He told me how much this affected him. He said he felt hopeless and wasn't quite himself anymore.

He then decided to take control of his life again and looked for an alternative. He found an alternative treatment in training and in caring for a service dog.

Now, his treatment includes one multivitamin, one other medication, and a four-legged companion that never leaves his side.

The COVER Act is the next piece in a working formula to heal our veterans, mentally and physically. It will pave the way toward the inclusion of these complementary alternative therapies at the VA.

These therapies include, but certainly are not limited to, service animal therapy, yoga therapy, acupuncture, equine therapy, and accelerated resolution therapy. Mr. Speaker, I have heard the stories from these veterans, and these therapies really work. They need access to these therapies. At a recent town hall, I even heard about the benefits of martial arts. The martial arts were treating PTS.

Mr. Speaker, when treating mental health issues, one size does not fit all. Please support this good bill.

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