Press Releases
Trahan, Rodgers, Kim, Axne Lead Reauthorization of Critical Bipartisan Suicide Prevention Programs
Washington,
March 29, 2022
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee, joined Congresswomen Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA-05), Young Kim (R-CA-39), and Cindy Axne (D-IA-03) to lead the introduction of bipartisan legislation to reauthorize important programs established under the Garrett Lee Smith (GLS) Memorial Act, which support community-based youth and young adult suicide prevention efforts. “The youth mental health crisis has only been made worse by the challenges of the pandemic,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “We have an obligation to meet this moment of urgency with the comprehensive solutions and resources our children need. I’m proud to join with colleagues to fulfill part of that obligation – reauthorizing the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act and the key programs it supports to provide mental health resources, bolster suicide prevention efforts, and end the stigma associated with getting help.” “The Garrett Lee Smith Memorial programs save lives and give hope to young adults in need of rescue from despair,” said Congresswoman Rodgers. “COVID-19 lockdowns have resulted in mental health emergencies, and children and young adults of all ages are in crisis. This is an urgent time to ensure these strong bipartisan programs can continue to support youth in our communities. I appreciate all my colleagues who are leading this bill with me. Let’s continue to build on this work for a more secure future for the next generation, especially in providing healing for those struggling with the trials of life.” “Every day, 125 Americans die by suicide, and mental health issues have become more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a mother of four and new grandmother, I mourn with parents who have lost their children due to suicide and want to do all I can to support resources that uplift our communities,” said Congresswoman Kim. “I’m proud to join Ranking Member McMorris Rodgers and Reps. Axne and Trahan to ensure Garrett Lee Smith community-based youth and young adult suicide prevention programs can continue their important work to support young people across the nation. I will do everything I can to help individuals improve their access to mental health care to meet their health needs.” “Our country's worsening mental health crisis is taking a devastating toll on young people, and the need to invest in youth mental health and suicide prevention efforts couldn't be more dire," said Congresswoman Axne. "This legislation will provide continued support for critical suicide prevention programs for years to come and ensure that young people in Iowa and across the country can access the help that they need. I'm proud to work with my colleagues on this pressing issue to combat the mental health crisis and save lives.” The Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act is named after the son of former Oregon Senator Gordon Smith. Garrett died by suicide in his apartment in Utah where he attended college in 2004. These bipartisan programs were last renewed in the 21st Century Cures Act, and are set to expire at the end of fiscal year 2022. According to the following studies:
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