Two local representatives in Congress representing the WGXC listening area joined others May 22 introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the School-Based Health Centers program. H.R. 5899 would bring back the program, that provides health, dental screenings and, sometimes, mental health services, that expired in 2014. Reps. John Faso, who represents Greene, Columbia, Ulster, Delaware counties and parts of Dutchess and Rensselaer counties, and Paul Tonko, who represents Albany County and parts of Rensselaer County, were among the sponsors of the ill. “New York has the largest statewide network of SBHCs in the country and they are increasingly important in rural upstate communities,” said Faso. “These health providers fill geographic service gaps and ensure that students are receiving necessary care, such as preventative check-ups, dental services, and mental health services. I am glad we have a bipartisan coalition that recognizes the importance of SBHCs. This reauthorization is long overdue.” Tonko agreed saying, “School-based health centers are a critical source of healthcare for students including those struggling with mental health challenges or substance use disorders.... In the midst of our nation’s opioid epidemic, these centers have become even more important, especially in communities where there is limited access to substance use and mental health care. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in a bipartisan basis to support this important measure that serves students and families across Upstate New York.”