Virginia House Bill HB1186

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22

Caption

Mental Health Care Coordinator; position created in DVS, report.

Impact

The bill outlines that the Mental Health Care Coordinator will be responsible for gathering data on mental health issues prevalent among military personnel and veterans, thereby enabling a targeted approach to mental health care. Key responsibilities include increasing mental health screenings and facilitating referrals to appropriate medical professionals. The emphasis on data collection and research aims to inform better mental health resources and strategies tailored to the needs of service members and their families, potentially leading to improved outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 1186 aims to establish a dedicated position of Mental Health Care Coordinator within the Department of Veterans Services in Virginia. This role is intended to enhance the coordination and delivery of mental health services specifically for military service members, veterans, and their families. The creation of this position signifies a recognition of the unique mental health challenges faced by this population, particularly as it relates to the stresses and traumas of military service.

Contention

While the bill itself appears to be a positive step towards addressing mental health challenges, discussions around its implementation may present points of contention. Concerns could arise regarding the adequacy of funding and resources to support the new position effectively and whether the proposed actions will be sufficient to tackle the high rates of suicide and mental health crises within the veteran community. Additionally, the requirement for annual reporting may prompt reflections on accountability and the effectiveness of the Coordinator’s impact over time.