Bill > HR1290

This bill establishes a three-year pilot program at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) designed to improve mental health crisis support for veterans by creating a streamlined referral system to non-VA mental health care providers. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs will implement the program in at least three geographic locations within 180 days of the bill's enactment, with specific requirements including developing a referral system that connects veterans with approved non-VA mental health providers within one week, creating criteria for provider approval, hiring additional employees to facilitate referrals, and providing training to VA staff. The program requires annual reports to Congress detailing the number of veterans referred, average wait times, and veteran satisfaction, as well as a final report evaluating the program's effectiveness and potential expansion. The bill authorizes $3 million annually from fiscal years 2025 through 2027 to support the pilot program, with the ultimate goal of enhancing mental health support and reducing barriers to care for veterans experiencing mental health crises.

Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1290/all-info