Watkins To Introduce Legislation To Help Curb Veteran Suicides

Press Contact: Jim.Joice@mail.house.gov

For Immediate Release:

March 28, 2019

Watkins To Introduce Legislation To Help Curb Veteran Suicides

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Steve Watkins (KS-02) held a press conference this morning with Representatives Tim Ryan (D-OH), and Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) to unveil their legislation aimed at curbing veteran suicide rates by requiring the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a pilot program to study the effectiveness and benefits of non-profit posttraumatic growth programs. Congressman Watkins issued the following statement:

“From 2006 to today the negative trend of veterans suicides has failed to improve. This is unacceptable. The VA needs to be innovative, responsive, and on the front lines of mental health research, not lagging decades behind. Congress has been failing our veterans; this bill is a good first step in turning the corner and starting to provide real assistance to the men and women who fought for our freedoms.

“It is common sense that the VA start to partner with nonprofit organizations who have proven results in helping veterans cope with PTSD. I am proud to cosponsor the Veterans Posttraumatic Growth Act and hope my brothers and sisters who have served start to receive the care they so desperately need.”

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