Orrin Hatch: “on another matter, I would like to thank those who have worked with me on the important issue of mental health and…”

“on another matter, I would like to thank those who have worked with me on the important issue of mental health and suicide prevention. This week, President Trump signed into law my National Suicide Hotline Improvement Act, a bill that stands to save thousands of lives. This legislation becoming law is the high point of an effort that began in December 2016, when I held a roundtable discussion at East High School in Salt Lake about the growing issue of teen suicide. A theme from that roundtable, and many other subsequent conversations, was the need for greater access to help--simply finding someone to talk to. Too many Americans who are struggling with mental illness or see their friends or family members suffering do not know where to turn for help. By making resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline system more accessible and user-friendly, we can truly save thousands of lives. I thank all of those who helped get this bill across the finish line, including Utah State Senator Daniel Thatcher and Representative Steve Eliason, and of course Congressman Chris Stewart, who introduced the bill in the House. Most important, though, were the voices of so many Utahns who have felt the tragic effects of the suicide epidemic. I am heartbroken by their loss, but hopeful this law and their continued advocacy will turn the tide in the campaign against this epidemic. This is important, and I hope we will all get behind this and do what is right.…”