H.R.241 - Sergeant Ted Grubbs Mental Healthcare for Disabled Veterans Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 241, the Sergeant Ted Grubbs Mental Healthcare for Disabled Veterans Act, aims to improve access to mental healthcare for veterans with service-connected mental disorders. Specifically, it amends Title 38 of the United States Code to mandate that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provide hospital care, medical services, or extended care services for veterans with a service-connected mental disorder rated at 50 percent or more within five days of their request. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 9, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Expected Effects
This bill, if enacted, would likely lead to faster access to mental healthcare services for eligible veterans. It could reduce wait times and potentially improve mental health outcomes for this vulnerable population. The VA would need to adjust its procedures and resource allocation to meet the new access standards.
Potential Benefits
- Improved and timely access to mental healthcare for disabled veterans.
- Potential reduction in veteran suicide rates due to quicker intervention.
- Enhanced quality of life for veterans suffering from mental disorders.
- Streamlined VA processes for mental healthcare service delivery.
- Increased accountability of the VA in providing timely care.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on VA resources and infrastructure to meet the five-day access standard.
- Possible increased costs for the VA, requiring additional funding.
- Risk of overburdening community care providers if the VA cannot meet the demand internally.
- Potential for inconsistent application of the standard across different VA facilities.
- May not address underlying issues contributing to mental health challenges among veterans.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to provide care for veterans, a group often considered to have served the nation. Specifically, it falls under Congress's power to provide for the common defense and general welfare, as outlined in the Preamble. Furthermore, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to raise and support armies, implying a responsibility to care for those who have served.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).