4/16 Advisory: Domenici, Kennedy, Carter; Va Tech; MHParity
Senators Domenici, Kennedy, leaders on mental health parity and campus mental health, to be honored on Virginia Tech anniversary Campaign for Mental Health Reform Awards Advocates


/Disability News Articles/ - April 13, 2008 - The Campaign for Mental Health Reform, a coalition of leading mental health organizations, will recognize the longtime leadership of mental health parity sponsor Senator Pete V. Domenici (R-NM) and his colleague, Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA), on April 16. Presenting the award to his father will be Representative Patrick J. Kennedy (D-RI), a lead sponsor of parity legislation in the House.

Held on the anniversary of the tragic April 16, 2007 shootings at Virginia Tech, the Campaign Dinner will honor two organizations dedicated to improving mental health on the nation's college campuses. The Jed Foundation provides support for efforts to prevent suicide on campuses; Active Minds on Campus has developed chapters providing mental health information and support on over 100 campuses nationwide.

The event brings together the lead negotiators seeking to resolve differences on parity bills passed by the Senate and House, in order to send legislation to the White House this year. Advocates hope that parity will become law before Domenici concludes his 36 year Senate career at the end of this year.

In prepared remarks, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter wrote, "It had been my hope that we would be celebrating passage of a parity law this evening. ... I am still hopeful that a way can be found for Congress soon to reach agreement and send legislation to the president for his signature."

WHAT: Annual Awards Dinner


WHO: The Honorable Pete V. Domenici (R-NM)

The Honorable Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA)

The Honorable Patrick J. Kennedy (D-RI)


WHEN: Wednesday, April 16, 2008, 6:00 p.m.


WHERE: Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill

400 New Jersey Avenue, NW

Washington, DC



Acting on the understanding that mental health is integral to health, the Campaign for Mental Health Reform brings together 17 organizations dedicated to improvement of federal policies affecting children and adults who need mental health services. To learn more, visit www.mhreform.og


PRESS ADVISORY CONTACT: William Emmet
703-836-3066 (o)/401-578-1529 (c)
bill.emmet@mhreform.org

Further Related Resources:


Press Release Contact Information:

Sara Narod
Natalie Shear Associates
Event Manager