Statement from First Lady Chirlane McCray on the House's Passage of H.R. 2646, Bipartisan Mental Health Reform Bill

July 6, 2016

“I am pleased that the House came together for this important step forward. The public health crisis of untreated mental illness and substance misuse must not be obstructed by partisan politics. Mental illness, including substance misuse, makes it harder to have healthy relationships, to parent, to work or to stay in school. In short, untreated mental illness is stunting the potential of our city and our country. All levels of government must work together to prevent and treat mental illness, support mental wellness and help our citizens thrive.

“Although we have the tools to prevent and treat mental health conditions and substance misuse, millions suffer because we lack a system that allows us to use those tools effectively. That is why we must not stop with today’s progress, which leaves much room for more action. The next step is for the Senate to pass the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016, which expands access to mental health care for those who need it most, and the TREAT Act, which will remove needless restrictions and help health care providers treat opioid addiction. To truly help people and fix our broken mental health system, Congress must provide new resources. Only with serious investment can we address the decades of neglect that have left so many families in pain and distress.”