Political Quotes

“Mr. Chair, my amendment would direct the Vet Centers to use $2.5 million of the additional funding allocated in the underlying bill to provide outdoor experiences for veterans as part of their continuum of care. This program would support veterans in developing a community of support to treat combat-related injuries, especially those related to their behavioral health. The Vet Centers are uniquely positioned for the collaboration and development of alternative and supplemental approaches. We know that traditional mental health services are underutilized by veterans, but a 2014 University of Texas study found that, after just a one-week-long Outward Bound veterans wilderness expedition, those veterans who participated showed clinically significant improvements in mental health variables like sense of social connection and attitudes towards seeking psychological help. They also showed important decreases in depression and anxiety. The Senate Appropriations Committee has already included the same language in their version of the MILCON-Veterans Administration Appropriations bill. Mr. Chair, I encourage my colleagues to support this amendment. I am very grateful to the chairman of the subcommittee for including this in the en bloc amendments because it will enable Vet Centers to explore alternative avenues for engaging veterans in a supportive environment to help with both mental health and readjustment to civilian life.”