S.2096 - Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.2096, the Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act, aims to enhance mental health support for transitioning servicemembers and veterans. The bill amends titles 10 and 38 of the United States Code to improve the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and Solid Start Program. It mandates increased focus on mental health issues within these programs.
The bill requires the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide comprehensive information and resources related to mental health. This includes addressing conditions like PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and suicidal ideation. A report on the developed materials must be submitted to the appropriate congressional committees within one year of enactment.
Overall, the bill seeks to reduce veteran suicide by improving mental health support during and after the transition from military service.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely lead to improved mental health services and awareness for transitioning servicemembers and veterans. It will require the DoD and VA to enhance their existing programs with more comprehensive mental health resources. The required report will provide oversight and accountability for these changes.
The changes to the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) will ensure that servicemembers receive information on a wider range of mental health issues. The Solid Start Program will be expanded to include assistance with VA healthcare enrollment and education about available mental health services.
Ultimately, the goal is to reduce veteran suicide rates by addressing mental health challenges early and providing better access to care.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Mental Health Support: Enhances mental health services for transitioning servicemembers and veterans.
- Increased Awareness: Raises awareness of mental health issues like PTSD, TBI, and suicidal ideation.
- Better Access to Care: Facilitates access to mental health and counseling services through the VA.
- Comprehensive Information: Provides comprehensive information on mental health resources and treatment options.
- Reduced Veteran Suicide: Aims to reduce veteran suicide rates by addressing mental health challenges early.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Implementation Challenges: Effective implementation may face challenges due to bureaucratic hurdles or resource constraints.
- Limited Scope: The bill primarily focuses on mental health during transition, potentially overlooking ongoing needs.
- Reporting Burden: The requirement for a report may create an administrative burden for the DoD and VA.
- Lack of Specific Funding: The bill does not explicitly allocate additional funding for these programs, which could limit their effectiveness.
- Dependence on VA Resources: Relies heavily on the VA system, which may already be strained.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). By addressing the mental health needs of veterans, the bill supports those who have served in the military, contributing to national security and the well-being of the population.
There are no apparent conflicts with specific constitutional provisions. The bill does not infringe upon individual liberties or rights, and it operates within the established powers of Congress to legislate for the armed forces and veterans affairs (Article I, Section 8).
Furthermore, the bill does not establish any religious preference or restrict freedom of speech, assembly, or the press (First Amendment). It focuses on providing resources and support for mental health, which falls within the government's responsibility to care for its citizens, particularly those who have served in the military.
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).