Mental health care

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The Rev. James Holland writes in a March 26 letter with regard to John F. Shick’s shooting rampage at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic that liberals have ensured the passage of laws that grant “absolute freedom” to mentally ill patients. That’s a new one.

Governmental funding — tax dollars — is a major source of support for mental health care services. The Affordable Care Act of 2010, which some people refer to as “Obama-care,” created a mandated benefit for the coverage of services for mental health patients. Up to then, private health insurance was — and in many cases, still is — generally more restrictive in coverage of mental illness than in coverage for somatic illness. My best hunch is that most liberals support the Affordable Care Act.

I don’t understand his analogy to animal “no-kill” shelters. They do not receive federal or state aid with the exception perhaps of some small governmental grants such shelters can competitively apply for.

Would the reverend like to change the mental health laws so that they’re similar to Florida’s National Rifle Association-backed “stand your ground” law? If you feel threatened by anyone, shoot! Therefore, if you think someone in your family has no clue about reality (a.k.a., doesn’t agree with you), commit!

I respect his right to be a member of the NRA, though I’m not sure why a Catholic priest needs a gun.

MATT BARRY
Munhall

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