Bipartisan group of lawmakers to introduce bill aimed at eliminating vet suicide
A bipartisan group of lawmakers is coming together to introduce a bill aimed at strengthening veteran suicide prevention programs. Rep. Greg Landsman, a Republican from Ohio, is leading the effort and is determined to make a significant impact in reducing the heartbreaking rates of veteran suicide.
The bill, titled the “What Works at Preventing Veteran Suicide Act,” would require the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) to establish new pilot and grant programs focused on eliminating veteran suicide. The legislation would hold the VA secretary accountable for setting clear and measurable objectives for funding and programs, evaluating their effectiveness in preventing veteran suicide.
Rep. Morgan Luttrell, a former U.S. Navy SEAL from Texas, is also joining the effort and emphasized the importance of accountability and results in addressing the crisis of veteran suicide. Rep. Derrick Van Orden, a military veteran lawmaker from Wisconsin, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need to invest in proven, effective programs to combat veteran suicide.
Despite veterans making up only 6% of the U.S. adult population, they account for a disproportionate share of the national suicide rate. The most recent National Veteran Suicide Prevention Report found that 13.3% of nationwide suicides were committed by veterans. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for action to prevent veteran suicide.
The bipartisan legislation has garnered support from organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and Save a Warrior. Save a Warrior founder and president, Jack Retzer, expressed gratitude for the leadership shown on this issue and the commitment to supporting those who have served our nation.
The bill has also received bipartisan support, with Pennsylvania Democratic Rep. Chris Deluzio joining the effort. Deluzio emphasized the importance of utilizing tested and effective tactics to address the suicide crisis facing America’s veterans, pledging to never stop fighting for their protection and well-being.
In conclusion, the bipartisan effort to strengthen veteran suicide prevention programs is a crucial step in addressing the crisis of veteran suicide. By focusing on proven, effective programs and holding the VA accountable for their effectiveness, lawmakers are working towards reducing the heartbreaking rates of veteran suicide and ensuring that our nation’s veterans receive the support they deserve.
