Sen. Gordon Smith (R-OR) introduced the "Healthy Transition Act of 2008" on June 25, 2008. Smith praised Sen. Chris Dodd (D-CONN) and Rep. Pete Stark (D-CA) for their collaboration (Stark introduced identical bill (HR 6375) in the House, and explained the need for a bill that promote "statewide coordination plans" helping adolescents and young adults "acquire the skills and resources they need to make a healthy transition to adulthood." In his home state of Oregon, Smith said this age group is "80 percent less likely than any other population in the State with mental health needs to receive services." He pointed to the June 2008 GAO report, Young Adults with Serious Mental Illness, outlining need and model programs.


