California 2019-2020 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB3371

Introduced
3/12/20  
Refer
4/24/20  
Refer
4/24/20  
Report Pass
5/6/20  
Report Pass
5/6/20  
Refer
5/6/20  
Refer
5/6/20  
Report Pass
6/2/20  
Engrossed
6/8/20  
Engrossed
6/8/20  
Refer
6/9/20  
Refer
6/9/20  
Refer
6/23/20  
Refer
6/23/20  
Report Pass
8/10/20  
Report Pass
8/10/20  
Refer
8/10/20  
Enrolled
8/27/20  
Enrolled
8/27/20  
Chaptered
9/11/20  
Passed
9/11/20  

Caption

Veteran suicides: report.

Impact

By requiring cross-tabulation of data and yearly comparisons, AB 3371 introduces a more comprehensive framework for analyzing veteran suicides. This could lead to better-targeted interventions and support systems tailored to the unique needs of veterans in different counties. Such data could be invaluable to legislators and service providers as they strive to understand and combat veteran suicide effectively. Ultimately, this could have significant implications for state health policies related to the mental well-being of veterans.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 3371 mandates the State Department of Public Health to enhance its reporting on veteran suicides in California. The bill requires the department to compile annual reports detailing not only the fundamental demographics of veterans—including age, sex, race, and methods of suicide—but also to include information regarding their counties of residence. This shift aims to provide a deeper understanding of the veteran demographic and identify potential geographical patterns in suicide rates.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 3371 has generally been positive, reflecting a collective acknowledgment of the urgency to address veteran suicides. Legislative advocates emphasize the need for improved data as essential for crafting informed policy responses and ensuring that resources for mental health support are effectively deployed. The absence of any noted opposition further suggests a consensus on the importance of the measure among lawmakers, with the bill receiving unanimous support during voting sessions.

Contention

While there appears to be broad support for the objectives of AB 3371, underlying tensions regarding data confidentiality and the implementation of health policies always exist. Questions may arise around the potential misuse of sensitive data collected, and whether such comprehensive reporting could lead to effective action or merely grow bureaucratic layers without substantial outputs. A critical discourse may develop on how best to leverage the information collected to produce tangible benefits for the veteran community, ensuring that legislative intent translates into effective action.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB1462

Veteran overdose deaths.

CA SB783

Veterans: suicide.

CA AB988

Miles Hall Lifeline and Suicide Prevention Act: veteran and military data reporting.

CA AB1994

Veterans: Department of Veterans Affairs.

CA AB718

Veterans: mental health.

CA AB1566

Department of Veterans Affairs: veterans’ services.

CA SB1529

Veterans homes.

CA SB1097

Veterans: military and veterans: gender-neutral terms.

CA AB1647

Veterans treatment courts: grant program.

CA AB1234

Veteran home use: reporting.

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