Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
In Effort To Restart Mental Health Reform Bill, Conn. Senator Eyes Controversial Provision
As Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) tries to revive Congress鈥檚 long-stalled mental health reform bill, he is demanding changes to one of its most controversial provisions. For years, the biggest sticking point for the House鈥檚 Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act has been the expansion of involuntary outpatient treatment. That idea has created a sharp divide between mental health groups and has prevented the bill from advancing. (Murphy, 5/21)
The Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday advanced a $77.6 billion funding bill for military construction and veterans benefits that includes an amendment allowing Veterans Affairs doctors to recommend the use of medical marijuana. (Shabad, 5/21)
U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner on Thursday made good on his promise to push for over-the-counter contraceptives, introducing legislation aimed at making it easier for women to prevent unwanted pregnancies. The legislation encourages drug manufacturers of "routine-use contraceptives" to file an application with the Food and Drug Administration to sell their products over the counter. (Bartels, 5/21)
