A Single Obstacle Stands In The Way Of The Suicide Prevention Act

A single obstacle is preventing the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans from going to the Senate floor for a vote: A hold. A “hold” is a procedure that allows one or more senators to anonymously block bills from coming up for a vote. It is speculated that Sen. Tom Coburn, a Republican from Oklahoma nicknamed “Dr. No,” is responsible for it after expressing budget concerns.

“In almost every case, VA already has the tools and authorities it needs to address these problems. The department needs leadership, not another piece of ineffective legislation,” according to the release from Coburn's office. Coburn is just days away from retiring.

Veteran advocates are encouraging Coburn’s constitutes to reach out to his office and encourage him to release the hold so the bill can be voted on.