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Tampa Tribune

February 16, 2004

Reprinted with permission of the author. All rights reserved.

LETTER
Reforms are coming

Last year, Alan Mark Houseman, my brother-in-law and a paranoid schizophrenic off his medication, was killed by a Tampa Police officer while his family awaited his pick up as ordered by the courts through the Baker Act.

Since that day, his family has worked diligently to reform the Baker Act, in order to help others who deal with the mental illness of their loved ones.

We proudly announce that Gov. Jeb Bush supports mandated outpatient treatment and backs the reform of the mental health law.

My husband David and I would like to thank all who have joined us in contacting their legislators to help get this bill passed when the Legislature gets back in session and bring help to those with severe mental illness who are caught in the revolving door in Florida.

CEIDA HOUSEMAN

Clearwater Beach