Sen. Ortt Named Chairman of Committee on Mental Health

State Senator Robert Ortt (R,C,I-North Tonawanda) has been named chairman of the Standing Committee on Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities. Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos assigned various committees to each member. 

The Mental Health Committee focuses on the psychological well-being of individuals, improving mental health care services, and aiding and educating in the prevention of mental illness.

As a military veteran himself, Sen. Ortt understands the difficulties many service men and women face when returning home from combat.

"As chairman of the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee, I will be a fierce advocate for individuals and families in Western New York and across the state who are most in need of compassionate, efficient and effective government.

“For many veterans, the struggles they deal with overseas don’t end when they come home,” said Sen. Ortt. “So many individuals suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression or addiction. These veterans need help landing back on their feet, getting a job and overcoming their inner struggles. As chairman, I’m devoted to leading their fight in helping vets do just that and easing their transition into civilian life.”

Sen. Ortt is also a member of the following Senate Standing Committees: Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs; Local Government; Higher Education; Environmental Conservation; Corporations, Authorities and Commissions; Civil Service and Pensions; and Cities.