Connecticut House Bill HB05191

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/17
• Refer: 1/4/17

Caption

An Act Providing Mental Health Services To Veterans And Members Of The Armed Forces.

Impact

Should HB 05191 be enacted, it would require a significant amendment to existing general statutes to enhance the resources available for mental health screening programs targeted at veterans and active duty soldiers. This would not only increase state commitment to veteran mental health but also potentially improve the quality of care provided to individuals adjusting to civilian life. The systematic identification of mental health needs is expected to lead to increased assistance for veterans, helping mitigate issues that arise during their transition from military service.

Summary

House Bill 05191 is designed to enhance mental health services for veterans and members of the armed forces. The bill mandates that the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, in collaboration with the Department of Veterans' Affairs, must increase state resources aimed at identifying the mental health needs of active-duty soldiers and veterans. This initiative is focused on establishing a comprehensive safety net of services tailored to assist these individuals during their transition from military to civilian life. The core objective is to ensure accessibility to necessary mental health support.

Contention

While the bill seeks to address critical gaps in mental health services for veterans, discussions surrounding its implementation may spark debates regarding budget allocations and effectiveness. Some stakeholders may raise concerns about whether the proposed resources will be sufficient to meet the needs identified through screening programs. Additionally, there may be discussions about the methodology used in these screenings and whether they effectively capture the diverse needs of all veterans, particularly those from different demographics or service backgrounds.