Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers for Veterans Therapy Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. ROSE. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers for Veterans Therapy Act or the PAWS Act.

Americans enjoy the blessings of hard-earned peace and liberty because of our warriors who answer the call to defend our country. Our men and women in uniform are a constant reminder of the true source of our Nation's greatness.

In middle Tennessee, we have a proud history of military service. Our veterans represent the very best of America, and they deserve our full support when it comes to ensuring that they have access to the resources they need to help them live a meaningful, productive post- service life.

It is widely acknowledged that the suicide rate for veterans is tragically high, as 20 veterans are lost to suicide every day. We need to address this problem.

No one can deny the emotional and psychological benefits of man's best friend, but for our service veterans, that connection has an even greater impact. Psychiatric service dogs paired with veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder have been shown to provide hope, independence, security, and companionship.

As I travel my home State and speak with our Nation's heroes, I have heard how service dogs help improve their quality of life, and I have even heard that had it not been for their service dog, they wouldn't be with us today. The PAWS Act would pair more servicemembers with quality service dogs trained by reputable organizations.

Every veteran has earned a life after their military service free of post-traumatic stress disorder that too often leads to suicide. In that regard, we should do everything we can to ensure their well-being. In my view, passage of the PAWS Act is a minimum down payment on what we owe these brave Americans.

I encourage my colleagues to join me in letting our veterans know that Congress stands with them on their path to healing.

I thank my colleague, Representative Stivers, for his leadership on this bill and wish him success as he leaves the House next week.

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