National Basketball Association

Artest advocates mental health help in visit to DC

Published Feb. 17, 2011 11:42 p.m. ET

foxsports

Ron Artest is speaking out in favor of more mental health services for schools.

The Los Angeles Lakers forward and boxer Mia St. John were in the nation's capital on Thursday to support the proposed Mental Health in Schools Act, which was introduced in the House by Rep. Grace Napolitano, a California Democrat.

Artest referenced his colorful background as he spoke in support of the bill. He said he's ''personally experienced the benefits and transformation a person can have, just by having access to qualified mental health professionals.''

The legislation would create a grant program that allows school districts to hire mental health counselors.