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(Washington, D.C.) - Congressman Ciro D. Rodriguez (TX-23) will be holding a press conference TOMORROW for the introduction of his bill aimed at improving access to mental health services for our veterans and returning soldiers. The Rodriguez bill allows the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to increase their mental health service capacity by allowing them to contract out to community mental health centers, extending the reach of mental health services provided to our returning soldiers and current veterans by the VA.
"Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other psychological trauma are the invisible injuries of war that affect not only the brave men and women who serve our country, but also their families, loved ones, and community as they transition back into civilian life," said Congressman Rodriguez. "It is clear that our soldiers are returning with an increased need for mental health services, but after this long war, it is unclear what the VA's capacity to fulfill this need will be. I am proud to introduce this bill that will increase the ability of the VA to expand its capacity by collaborating with experienced and qualified Community Health Care Centers. Our veterans have sacrificed for our country, and we must honor them with high quality health care services, including high quality mental health care so they can more smoothly transition back to civilian life and properly cope with their wartime experiences."
Congressman Rodriguez is a former social worker who currently serves on the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and House Committee on Appropriations.
Press Conference Details:
What: Press Conference to introduce Rodriguez bill for Veterans Mental Health Care
When: TOMORROW, Wednesday, 3:30pm
Where: Cannon Terrace
Confirmed attendees: Congressman Ciro D. Rodriguez (TX-23)
Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (CA-38)
Texas Council of Community Mental Health Centers
National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare
National Association of Counties
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