A bipartisan package of bills aimed at providing mental health and substance abuse resources to military members, veterans and their families has passed the House of Representatives. House Bill 5276 would statutorily establish the Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention within the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs.
“Today’s passage of this important legislation is the culmination of a bipartisan effort, and it is a vital effort to ensure that veterans and their families have access to essential mental health and substance abuse resources,” said State Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor-Charter Township), Chair of the House Armed Services, Veterans and Homeland Security Committee. “This bill is a major step in supporting those who have sacrificed so much in service to our country. I am honored to support efforts to prioritize the health of veterans by ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.”
State Rep. Christine Morse (D-Texas Township) is sponsoring HB 5277, which lays the groundwork for the interagency collaboration and veterans outreach efforts the new office will undertake.
“As the spouse of a Navy veteran, I know the transition from active duty to civilian life can be difficult, especially for those who have served in combat,” Morse said. “These bills will ensure there are resources available to ease the transition and increase access to mental health services, hopefully reducing the epidemic of veteran suicide.”
HB 5279, introduced by State Rep. Felicia Brabeck (D-Pittsfield Township), outlines a peer-to-peer program that the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs would implement to assist veterans and Michiganders currently serving in the military.
“As the only clinical psychologist in the state Legislature, I know firsthand how important it is for all Michiganders to have access to mental health care, treatment and support,” Brabeck said. “Veterans and active-duty military members have sacrificed so much for us, and I am pleased to introduce legislation that will give veterans the support they deserve.”
