[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 162 (Wednesday, October 24, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2230]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              JOSHUA OMVIG VETERANS SUICIDE PREVENTION ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 23, 2007

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 
327, the Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act. As an original 
cosponsor who voted for its passage in the House earlier this year, I 
am pleased that this bill has passed both the House and the Senate. I 
look forward to sending this bill to the President with such 
overwhelming support.


 =========================== NOTE =========================== 

  
  On Page E2230, October 24, 2007, the following appeared: Mr. 
LANGEVIN. Madam Speaker, I rise
  
  The online version should be corrected to read: Mr. LANGEVIN. 
Mr. Speaker, I rise


 ========================= END NOTE ========================= 

  H.R. 327 will expand awareness of the serious problem of suicide 
among veterans suffering from PTSD and of the special needs of veterans 
at high risk for depression. Furthermore, it would develop and 
implement a program that would include mandatory training for 
professionals who interact with veterans, screening for suicide risk 
factors, counseling and treatment for at-risk veterans, and 24-hour 
veterans' mental health care availability.
  It is a sad reality that we as a Nation must face once again the 
repercussions of war, and it is equally tragic that we are forced to 
acknowledge where our system has failed our servicemembers and 
veterans. I will continue to work with my colleagues to forge solutions 
in correcting our military care structure to ensure they receive the 
care that they earned and deserve.
  Mr. Speaker, passing this bill is one way to correct what is wrong 
with the current system. May we all recognize the service of those who 
have selflessly given to our country, especially those brave men and 
women who are serving today around the world. I know you join me in 
praying for their safe and quick return home.

                          ____________________