RICHMOND, V.A. – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) hosted a public health seminar at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. The seminar convened local law enforcement representatives, doctors, and mental health and rehabilitation specialists to share information and resources pertaining to opioid misuse and addiction and mental health crises in the community.
“Many Americans are battling mental health challenges and opioid misuse now more than ever and oftentimes are unaware of the resources available to support them through these struggles,” said Rep. Wittman. “We must work collaboratively at the local, state, and federal levels to provide Americans with the support they need. I’m grateful to the representatives from our local hospitals and police departments for speaking directly with community members today to share how they can help folks experiencing mental health or drug misuse struggles and let them know there are resources and professionals available to help them or a loved one through challenging times. I look forward to our continued work to improve the health, safety, and overall well-being of the First District, the Commonwealth, and our nation.”
Throughout his time in Congress, Rep. Wittman has advocated for increased funding and resources for addressing the mental health and opioid misuse crises across the nation, including:
-
Cosponsored the Timely Mental Health for Foster Youth Act, which requires states to provide initial mental health screening to youth within 30 days of entering foster care, and if a mental health concern is identified, requires states to provide a comprehensive health assessment within 60 days, and perform yearly screenings for all children in the foster care system
-
Cosponsored the Mental Health Access Improvement Act, now signed into law, which increases access to mental health care by expanding telehealth services and providing reimbursement for licensed professionals under Medicare
-
Supported the CARES Act, which improved care coordination for patients with substance use disorder
-
Supported the 21st Century Cures Act, which provided historic funding to improve mental health services
