Gordon Votes To Improve Care For Returning Vets

October 23, 2007, WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon voted to improve mental health care available for the nation’s veterans.

“Our veterans make many sacrifices when they put themselves in harm’s way for their country,” said Gordon. “It’s our duty to make sure they receive both the physical and mental health care they deserve.”

The U.S. House of Representatives approved the Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act today to improve mental health care for veterans, especially those returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Gordon co-sponsored the bill, which is named after an Iowa veteran who committed suicide after returning from service in Iraq.

The bill would authorize a suicide prevention program within the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs, as well as training programs to help personnel at VA medical facilities recognize and treat veterans at risk for suicide. The bill also focuses on mental health care for elderly veterans.

“We must keep working to honor the promises made to our veterans,” said Gordon. “From reducing disability backlogs to improving care for veterans and wounded servicemembers, this Congress is working to help those who have served this nation with dignity and honor. Now, this nation must serve them.”