California Assembly Bill AB1314

California 2017-2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/17
• Refer: 4/27/17
• Failed: 2/1/18

Caption

County mental health services: veterans.

Impact

If enacted, AB 1314 would simplify the process for veterans seeking mental health services, potentially increasing their access to necessary support. The requirement for counties to provide treatment without preconditions could significantly reduce barriers veterans face in acquiring mental health care, making it more efficient for them to receive help when needed. Moreover, the bill highlights the legislative intent to improve collaboration between counties and federal agencies to seek reimbursements after providing services, which could enhance funding for local mental health programs.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1314, introduced by Assembly Member Irwin, aims to amend the Welfare and Institutions Code to enhance mental health service access for veterans. The bill mandates that counties provide mental health services to any veteran requesting treatment, disregarding their eligibility for services from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or other federal healthcare providers. This proposes a significant change in the way counties interact with veterans seeking mental healthcare, easing prior requirements that necessitated referral to VA services before accessing local mental health resources.

Contention

Despite the positive intent behind AB 1314, there may be points of contention regarding the financial implications for counties obligated to provide these services. Critics could argue that mandating counties to treat veterans without ensuring adequate funding and resources could strain local health systems. Further debates may arise over the effectiveness of local mental healthcare compared to VA services and whether this change could lead to overlap or confusion in service provision. Stakeholders in mental health service delivery might raise concerns about the sustainability of such initiatives without clear financial backing.