Political Quotes

“I appreciate the gentleman from Florida for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Nugent-Collins amendment, which provides critical additional funding for Veterans Treatment Courts and mental health courts. I have seen firsthand the difference that mental health courts and Veterans Treatment Courts can make. Over the course of the past few months in and around the Ninth District and all over Georgia, this is something that I have worked on not only in the State of Georgia, but also now in working nationally here with my friend from Florida. Our jails are not mental health facilities, but we continue to use them that way, despite the fact that they are not in anyone's best interest. By treating the mentally ill with compassion, we can provide them a second chance to get better. We can also cut costs, empower States, reduce recidivism, and ensure that law enforcement officers can focus on protecting the safety of the public. By investing in Veterans Treatment Courts, we can better serve those who have served us, and we can address PTSD and related issues in a more meaningful way. I appreciate Mr. Nugent and his tireless leadership on this issue in advocating for a better, more sensible approach. Together, we introduced the Comprehensive Justice and Mental Health Act, which would expand and further improve upon the mental health and Veterans Treatment Court programs that are funded by H.R. 2578. I just want to encourage everyone to support this amendment.…”