Veterans Collaboration ActThis bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to implement a two-year pilot program to promote and encourage partnerships between the VA and nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher learning. Specifically, the VA must encourage partnerships between (1) veterans service organizations that provide credentialed personnel to assist veterans with legal needs, and (2) law schools that provide pro bono legal assistance and legal services to veterans.
Impact
The implementation of HB 552 is expected to have a significant impact on the current support structure for veterans. By creating formal partnerships with educational institutions and nonprofit organizations, the bill seeks to streamline the process through which veterans can access necessary assistance. This could lead to improved outcomes for veterans filing disability claims and navigating legal complexities, ultimately enhancing their quality of life. The legislation highlights the importance of collaboration in addressing the unique needs of veterans, particularly in accessing legal resources effectively.
Summary
House Bill 552, known as the Veterans Collaboration Act, aims to enhance the support provided to veterans by establishing a two-year pilot program that encourages partnerships between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), nonprofit organizations, and institutions of higher learning. The bill mandates the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to foster collaborations with veterans service organizations accredited to assist veterans with claims, and law schools that offer pro bono legal services. The central objective is to ensure that veterans receive adequate administrative assistance and legal support in their interactions with the VA.
Contention
While the bill presents a constructive approach towards supporting veterans, it may face scrutiny regarding the appropriateness of channeling funds and resources toward new programs during a time when many veterans still await timely access to existing services. Concerns may arise about the accountability of nonprofit organizations and law schools in delivering quality legal assistance and whether the program's efficacy can be adequately measured. In the reporting requirements outlined in the bill, the Secretary must provide updates on outcomes and social media outreach efforts, which may be a point of debate regarding transparency and effectiveness of the partnerships formed under this act.
Veterans Collaboration Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out a two-year pilot program in states with the highest veteran populations to promote collaboration between the VA, nonprofit organizations, and institutions of higher learning. The VA shall emphasize collaboration with (1) veterans service organizations that provide personnel with appropriate credentials to assist veterans in filing disability compensation claims and appeals with the VA, and (2) educational institutions that provide veterans with pro bono legal assistance.
To direct the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training to carry out a pilot program on short-term fellowship programs for veterans.
To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a pilot program on the provision of naloxone to veterans and their caregivers, and for other purposes.
This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to designate one week per year as Battle Buddy Check Week for the purposes of organizing outreach events and educating veterans on how to conduct peer wellness checks. The VA shall ensure that the Veterans Crisis Line has a plan for handling the potential increase in calls that may occur during such week.
A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an integrated project team to improve the process for scheduling appointments for health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
To amend title 38, United States Code, to expand the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make grants to entities that furnish services to homeless veterans.