The task force created by this bill will include various state commissioners and is tasked with identifying barriers to outdoor therapy for veterans and recommending legislative actions to improve access to outdoor recreational spaces. The bill is expected to formalize coordination between several departments to enhance veterans' access to therapeutic outdoor opportunities. Moreover, it includes measures to gather public input through hearings, ensuring community involvement in the shaping of outdoor recovery resources.
Summary
Assembly Bill A1295 proposes the establishment of a Veterans Outdoor Recovery Task Force under the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). This bill recognizes the healing benefits of outdoor recreation for veterans, particularly those suffering from PTSD. Recent studies cited in the bill demonstrate that engaging with the outdoors can substantially aid in the treatment and rehabilitation of veterans, suggesting a need for increased access to public outdoor spaces for this purpose.
Contention
Notably, while the bill aims to expand therapeutic options for veterans, concerns may arise regarding the management and allocation of public resources, particularly in balancing recreational usage with environmental conservation. It also mirrors the federal Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act, which could lead to discussions on the effectiveness and efficiency of such duplicative initiatives at both state and federal levels. Stakeholder opinions will likely shape the nature of discussions around the potential implications of this task force's recommendations.