DeLauro Statement on the Passage of her Amendments Funding Mental Health Services and Afterschool Programs

WASHINGTON, DC (September 14, 2017) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today issued the following statement after her amendments to increase funding for Mental Health and Afterschool programs passed with bipartisan support as part of the Omnibus Appropriations bill.

"For so long mental health issues were relegated to the shadows. But today, we know how widespread these issues are—and we need to approach them without stigma and treat them the same way we would treat other illnesses," said DeLauro. "Many families without health coverage—or whose coverage will not cover mental health or recovery programs rely on these services to provide the care needed to make our communities welcoming, compassionate, and safe for everyone."

"Afterschool programs clearly work for our kids. They enrich their lives while providing working parents with peace of mind," said DeLauro. "Investing in high quality afterschool is always money well-spent, and pays huge social and economic dividends down the road."

"The bipartisan support for these amendments illustrates the inadequacy of the Omnibus passed by the House today. Congress must immediately begin negotiating a new deal that raises the spending caps and allows Congress to adequately fund the programs that provide opportunities for hardworking Americans. Investing in these programs will help jobs seekers find good-paying jobs, educate our students, support our public health system, and protect women and seniors."

DeLauro Amendment #154 reversed the $230 million cut to federal mental health programs. DeLauro Amendment #161 restored $100 million in cuts to Afterschool programs, preserving access to school-based and community-based programs across the country.