WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative David Schweikert’s (AZ-01) cosponsor amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 passed the House. Sponsored alongside Reps. Vern Buchanan (FL-16) and Michelle Steel (CA-45), this amendment promotes the importance of access to mental health services, and how telehealth plays a key role in expanding access. 

Amendment No. 782 requires the Director of the Defense Health Agency to conduct a study and report to Congress on how the agency can increase access to telehealth services, including how telehealth can better mental health treatment outcomes. 

“Arizona should be leading the charge in providing of routine mental healthcare through our continued dedication to telemedicine,” said Rep. Schweikert. “Embracing this technology is one of the most moral actions we can take to expand patient access to the high-quality care they deserve—especially in the case of mental health services.”

Background:

• In a report conducted by Mental Health America, Arizona was ranked 49th in the country for access to mental health services. 

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Congressman David Schweikert serves on the Ways and Means Committee and is the current Chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee. He is also the Vice Chairman on the bicameral Joint Economic Committee, chairs the Congressional Valley Fever Task Force, and is the Republican Co-Chair of the Blockchain Caucus, Telehealth Caucus, Singapore Caucus, and the Caucus on Access to Capital and Credit.