EAST ALABAMA, Ala. (WBRC) – Lawmakers recently passed a bill that gives the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs the authority to establish and operate a statewide health care system.
Brandon Miller with the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs said helping heroes with mental health issues involves making sure services are customized for veterans.
State Bill 135, commonly known as the VA Health Care Access Act, was passed by the state Legislature this spring and took effect June 1. Currently, there are no mental health resources for veterans in Alabama.
Recognizing this gap in health care services, a committee was formed to develop a comprehensive plan to address the behavioral health needs of Alabama veterans.
“There’s nothing being offered at the state level … although crisis centers and other programs do great work. The veteran community needs services tailored to a variety of topics including TBI, PTSD and other experience-based issues that may arise during service,” Brandon Miller said.
The new steering committee is expected to meet for the first time in August 2024 and recommend a comprehensive plan to the governor by June 2025.
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