[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 41 (Tuesday, March 11, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E353]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     PAUL WELLSTONE MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION EQUITY ACT OF 2007

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. CIRO D. RODRIGUEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 5, 2008

  Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I wish to express my strong support 
for H.R. 1424, the Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity 
Act of 2007. As a former social worker serving in the United States 
Congress, I am a proud cosponsor of this bill and am pleased to see it 
passed in the House of Representatives.
  In my previous career, I worked with people affected by mental 
illnesses and substance abuse. Having seen the devastating effects 
these illnesses have on people's lives and their communities, I am glad 
my fellow Members of Congress also recognize that mental health 
services are absolutely critical to helping individuals regain control 
over their lives.
  For years, people with mental illnesses have faced restrictions on 
the number of visits they can make to their providers and financial 
limitations which are either too restrictive or too costly for them to 
receive the treatment they require. With this bill, we empower people 
to seek the help and support they need. By helping make mental health 
services more accessible, we aid people to take a very important step 
toward overcoming the technical and social psychological barriers 
surrounding mental health.
  Mental illnesses, like most other medical conditions, can be 
alleviated with treatment. When left untreated, these illnesses worsen 
and become a larger burden for the affected person. Because treatment 
is available and effective, it is a great injustice to allow financial 
and procedural restrictions to become yet another barrier people with 
mental illnesses have to overcome. Therefore, it is reasonable and fair 
that these illnesses receive the similar type of attention and medical 
coverage as other health conditions.
  Mental health is a fundamental element of overall health wellness 
which has not been fully recognized in the past. I am confident this 
bill will make it possible for millions of people to improve their 
quality of life. I commend my colleagues for making this a reality for 
many of their constituents.

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