Washington, D.C. (January 9, 2018) Congressman Steve Pearce today released the following statement after President Trump signed an Executive Order to provide veterans with greater access to mental health care:

"Our nation's veterans sacrificed so much to defend our freedoms and liberties. As a nation, the very least we can do is honor the commitments our government has made. The experiences endured by servicemembers are not always left on the battlefield. The immense pressure put on their shoulders when they return to get a job and lead a regular life can carry a heavy weight. These brave men and women who served, and especially those serving now, need to know that when they come home, there is a system in place to support them and their transition back to civilian life. This action today takes an appropriate step forward to lessen the risk of returning veterans and to ensure they receive the quality care they deserve."

The Executive Order "Supporting Our Veterans During Their Transition from Uniformed Service to Civilian Life" creates a program to provide more seamless access to mental health treatment and suicide prevention resources for servicemembers transitioning to civilian life. In addition, it utilizes innovative technologies to modernize and expand choice for veterans.