Congresswoman Matsui Statement on the Introduction of Senator Stabenow's Excellence in Mental Health Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 7, 2013

CONTACT: JONELLE TRIMMER
(202) 225-7163

Congresswoman Matsui Statement on the Introduction of Senator Stabenow's Excellence in Mental Health Act

Will be introducing companion legislation in the House

Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA), issued the following statement after Senator Debbie Stabenow and her colleagues in the Senate introduced the Excellence in Mental Health Act, legislation which addresses our nation's fragmented mental health system by strengthening America's community mental health centers. Congresswoman Matsui will be introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives next week.

"I am pleased that Senator Stabenow (D-MI) is introducing The Excellence in Mental Health Act, which increases access to community behavioral health services for all Americans and provides Medicaid reimbursement for these services. Next week, I will be introducing companion legislation in the House.

"Community mental health providers have been ignored for far too long. It is time for mental health to be treated on a level playing field with the rest of our nation's healthcare system. The federal government must step up and protect the mental health safety net, which has faced tremendous struggles across the country."

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