House Bill 285 (Thomas-D-Phila) is so poorly written that it will paint persons who have sought out counseling for marital problems, who have been troubled by the loss of a spouse or child, with the same broad brush as with those who are committed to mental hospitals. For example, a Veteran who suffers a traumatic brain injury and seeks a VA disability rating, will see neurologists or perhaps even neurosurgeons, but will also see a PhD in Clinical Psychology to insure that the TBI hasn't presented the Veteran as a danger to himself or others. Even if all of the cognitive and functional tests administered by the Clinical Psychologist reveal no indications of mental distress or illness, under Thomas' bill, these Veterans will become prohibited persons. If Rep. Thomas ill thought out bill passes, it will create a disincentive for Veterans, and others, to seek help from the mental health community of psychiatrists, counselors, and other dedicated professionals.

John DeLallo