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

Key Points

• The bill updates the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to provide separating service members with detailed mental health information, covering conditions like PTSD, traumatic brain injury, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sleep disorders, and suicidal ideation.
• TAP training will now include information about suicide risk factors such as adverse childhood experiences, homelessness, unemployment, and relationship strain, along with resources for substance abuse including alcohol, prescription drugs, and opioids.
• The bill also addresses the emotional challenges of leaving the military, requiring information about the loss of community, isolation from family and friends, and the potential stressors of separating from the armed forces.
• The Solid Start Program, which contacts new veterans after separation, will be updated to help veterans enroll in VA healthcare and educate them about mental health and counseling services available through the Veterans Health Administration.
• The Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs must jointly submit a report to Congress within one year of enactment describing the new information and materials they have developed under this law.

Votes

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