Bill

BILL • US HOUSE

HR 1290

Veterans Mental Health Crisis Referral Enhancement Act of 2025

119th Congress
Introduced by Vern Buchanan, Greg Murphy,

HR 1290 improves mental health crisis support for veterans by standardizing referrals, enhancing agency collaboration, and training professionals for timely assistance.

Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.
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Bill Summary • HR 1290

Summary of HR 1290: Veterans Mental Health Crisis Referral Enhancement Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The Veterans Mental Health Crisis Referral Enhancement Act of 2025 (HR 1290) aims to improve the referral process for veterans experiencing mental health crises. The bill seeks to enhance the coordination between various agencies and organizations that provide mental health services to veterans, ensuring timely and effective support for those in need.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions designed to strengthen mental health crisis response for veterans:

  • Referral Protocols: Establishes standardized protocols for referring veterans in crisis to appropriate mental health services, ensuring that they receive timely assistance.

  • Collaboration with Local Agencies: Encourages collaboration between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and local mental health agencies to create a more integrated support system for veterans.

  • Training Programs: Mandates training for VA staff and local mental health professionals on recognizing and responding to mental health crises among veterans.

  • Data Collection and Reporting: Requires the collection of data on the effectiveness of referral processes and outcomes for veterans in crisis, to inform future policy and program improvements.

Who Would Be Affected

The primary beneficiaries of HR 1290 would be veterans experiencing mental health crises, as well as their families. Additionally, mental health professionals and agencies that work with veterans would be impacted by the new referral protocols and training requirements. The bill aims to create a more responsive and effective mental health care system for those who have served in the military.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 13, 2025
  • Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs: February 13, 2025
  • Referred to the Subcommittee on Health: March 14, 2025

Sponsors

  • Primary Sponsor: Vern Buchanan
  • Cosponsor: Gregory F. Murphy

Conclusion

HR 1290 represents a significant step towards enhancing mental health support for veterans in crisis. By establishing clearer referral processes and fostering collaboration between agencies, the bill aims to ensure that veterans receive the timely care they need during critical moments. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its potential impact on veterans' mental health care will be closely monitored.

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Key Provisions Impacts Timeline
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