American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Applauds Introduction of REMOVE Copays Act

PR Contact: Maria de los Angeles Corral, 917-439-2946

WASHINGTON – April 26, 2022 – The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention applauds Chairman Mark Takano's introduction of the Reduce and Eliminate Mental Health Outpatient Veteran Copays (REMOVE Copays) Act, which will remove barriers to mental health care for our nation’s veterans. This important legislation will prohibit copayments on the first three outpatient mental health appointments made by a veteran each year through the VA, helping to ensure that veterans can receive needed care.

“Mental health is just as vital as physical health. Just as we look after the physical wellbeing of those who have fought to defend the United States, we must also protect their mental wellbeing. For that reason, AFSP stands in strong support of the REMOVE Copays Act, and we thank Chairman Takano for his ongoing support for those who have served our country,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Senior Vice President for Public Policy, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health through education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide. Led by CEO Robert Gebbia and headquartered in New York, with an Advocacy office in Washington, DC, AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states and Puerto Rico with programs and events nationwide. Learn more about AFSP in its latest Annual Report, and join the conversation by following AFSP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.