Statement From First Lady Charlene McCray On The House’s Passage Of The Helping Families In Mental Health Crisis Act Of 2016
“Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 34, which included H.R. 2646 Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, which will dramatically increase the federal government’s commitment to mental health. This bi-partisan bill is the most expansive congressional investment in decades.
“If passed, the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act will expand treatment for those suffering from serious mental illness or in crisis, promote early childhood mental health, provide $1 billion to address opioid addiction, and elevate mental health and substance misuse through strong, committed leadership by creating an Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance and Chief Medical Officer for Mental Health.
“Earlier this month, I convened elected officials and mental health advocates from across the country to launch Cities Thrive, the first national, bi-partisan, cities-based coalition to advocate for reform locally and on the federal level. At the convening, I spoke about the importance of this legislation and partnered with 63 Mayors from across the country to send Congress a petition calling for the swift passage of this bill.
“I urge the Senate to follow the House’s example and act quickly so that President Obama can sign this important legislation into law. One in five Americans suffers from a mental illness or substance misuse disorder. Our families desperately need this support.”