Political Quotes

“Madam Chair, I thank the gentlewoman and want to begin by acknowledging that my very good friend is the recognized expert in this House on all matters related to mental health and has probably done more on behalf of this cause than anybody in this Chamber in very many years. So it is with great reluctance that I opposed this particular amendment, earlier, when we actually accepted. But the amendment increases funding for programs currently funded at $15 million, the same as last year. As my friend knows, our committee actually received an allocation that was lower than last year, and we had limited resources to provide increases. But in recognition of the importance of the Assisted Outpatient Treatment Program, my committee maintained funding for the program at its current levels. I want to assure my friend, I intend to work with him during the process as we negotiate with the Senate. I would expect we probably will have a different allocation. We may be able to revisit this issue, and I would hope that we can, and certainly will, work with my friend. But at this time, I simply must oppose the amendment so we can stay within our current allocation. Madam Chair, I yield 2\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).”