Connecticut Senate Bill SB00322

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/16
• Refer: 2/25/16

Caption

An Act Concerning Outreach Efforts To Service Members During The First Thirty Days After Returning From Deployment.

Impact

This bill would strengthen the support framework for military members by mandating coordinated efforts among numerous state agencies, such as the Departments of Veterans' Affairs, Social Services, and Mental Health and Addiction Services among others. By creating a centralized forum for communication, SB00322 aims to address the needs and challenges veterans may face as they return home, such as mental health issues, housing, employment, and other critical areas requiring support. This could potentially lead to improved outcomes for veterans and their families.

Summary

SB00322 is an act aimed at enhancing outreach efforts to service members during their reintegration into civilian life following deployment. The bill mandates that the Adjutant General, in collaboration with multiple department heads, develop a conference specifically for returning armed forces members within thirty days of their return. The primary focus of this conference is to connect these individuals with various state agencies that offer assistance programs, thereby facilitating a smoother transition for military personnel back into their community and ensuring they are aware of the resources available to them.

Contention

While the intent of SB00322 is to provide necessary assistance to veterans, there may be contention regarding its implementation. Some stakeholders could argue that this initiative should not only be focused within the first thirty days of return but be part of a broader, ongoing support system for veterans. Others may concern themselves with the allocation of resources and whether the state agencies will be sufficiently equipped to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the bill without additional funding.