H.R.2878 - Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2878, the "Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act," aims to improve mental health support for transitioning servicemembers and veterans. The bill amends titles 10 and 38 of the United States Code to enhance the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and Solid Start Program. It mandates more comprehensive mental health information and services within these programs. The bill also requires a joint report from the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to Congress on the implementation of these changes.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely result in improved mental health services and awareness for transitioning servicemembers and veterans. This includes better access to mental health resources and education about conditions like PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and suicidal ideation. The required report will provide oversight and accountability for the implementation of these changes.
Potential Benefits
- Improved mental health support for transitioning servicemembers.
- Increased awareness of mental health resources and treatment options.
- Potential reduction in veteran suicide rates.
- Enhanced coordination between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Greater access to mental health services through the Solid Start Program.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increased costs for implementing the enhanced programs.
- Possible administrative challenges in coordinating between different government agencies.
- The effectiveness of the programs depends on proper implementation and utilization by servicemembers and veterans.
- The report mandated by the bill may not lead to significant improvements if its recommendations are not followed.
- No direct disadvantages to the American people outside of the veteran population.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to improve the well-being of veterans. Specifically, it falls under Congress's power to provide for the common defense and to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8). The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
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).