Bill > A2743

Introduced Session

This bill creates the Veterans Suicide Prevention Commission act. The purpose of the commission will be to assess, support, and create programs for the successful transition, adjustment, and reintegration of service members back into civilian life through the coordination of the collective efforts of State agencies with the goal of preventing veteran suicides. The commission will coordinate with State agencies to effectively and responsibly meet the needs of the military community. In performing these responsibilities, the commission will conduct planning, research, education, training, and evaluation activities to improve the operations and coordination of the systems of care and support provided by the agencies. The commission will coordinate its activities with the activities of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for its veterans, service members, and their families. The commission will consist of 13 members. Members of the commission will be appointed for a term of four years and until a successor is appointed and qualified. Upon expiration of the initial term, each member may be reappointed for an additional term of four years. The commission, in its discretion, may divide its membership into subcommittees in the course of carrying out its duties. The commission will hold at least six meetings each year, but otherwise will meet at the call of the chair. The primary focus of the commission will be on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of those State programs and services related to the military community with the goal of the prevention of veteran suicides. The commission will review the activities related to the military community of each State agency to ensure there is efficient and effective coordination and alignment with the needs of the military community. The commission will ensure accountability by tracking the progress of initiatives, programs, and services; develop strategic collaborations among State agencies; and increase public awareness of the services and support available to the military community to prevent veteran suicides. The commission will promote coordination and efficiency among State, county, and local units of government through knowledge sharing, mobilization of resources, and an aligned approach to serving the military community to prevent veteran suicides. The commission will issue periodic reports, which will include, but not be limited to, its strategic goals, its public research agenda, and its performance and progress in meeting its goals.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Brian Bergen (R)*,  Vicky Flynn (R),  Michele Matsikoudis (R),  Brian Rumpf (R),  Claire Swift (R), 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee (on 01/09/2024)

Official Document