S. 2096: Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act

The bill, titled the Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act, aims to enhance support for service members transitioning to civilian life and address mental health challenges that veterans face. The key components of the bill are outlined below:

1. Amendments to the Transition Assistance Program (TAP)

The bill proposes updates to the Transition Assistance Program, which is a program managed by the Department of Defense to help service members transition back to civilian life. The amendments include:

• Adding specific information regarding mental health services available to service members, which may include offerings from the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or non-profit organizations.
• Providing details on the treatment options for various mental health conditions related to military service, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sleep disorders, and suicidal thoughts.
• Highlighting the risk factors associated with suicide, including mental health conditions, homelessness, unemployment, and relationship issues.
• Focusing on the availability of treatment for substance abuse, covering issues like alcohol and opioid use.
• Addressing the emotional impact of losing community and support systems when transitioning out of the military.
• Recognizing the challenges of isolation from family and friends during the transition period, as well as potential stressors linked to separation from military service.

2. Updates to the Solid Start Program

The Solid Start Program, which is intended to assist veterans during their transition, will also see updates through this bill. Proposed changes include:

• Providing assistance to eligible veterans who choose to enroll in the Veterans Affairs health care system.
• Educating veterans about the mental health and counseling services available through the Veterans Health Administration.

3. Reporting Requirements

The bill mandates that, within one year of its enactment, both the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must submit a joint report to Congress. This report will detail the information and materials developed in response to the amendments made to the TAP and Solid Start Program.

4. Congressional Oversight

The report must be presented to relevant congressional committees, specifically those focusing on Armed Services and Veterans’ Affairs in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, ensuring that lawmakers are informed about the implementation and effectiveness of these changes.

Relevant Companies

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