WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) announced the introduction of the Vet Center Support Act, a bill that would identify barriers to constructing new Vet Centers and increasing staff capacity to assess how well veterans’ mental health needs are being met in underserved areas. Minnesota only has three Vet Centers statewide – one Center for every 100,000 veterans – one of the worst ratios in the country.
Vet Centers are community-based health providers that offer mental health services and readjustment counseling to veterans, active duty, National Guard members, Reservists, and their families. Yet, despite their proven track record of suicide prevention and excellent care, as well as the growing demand for their services, the state of Minnesota has not gained a new Vet Center in over a decade. After hearing from veterans, service organizations, state officials, and the Congressman’s own Veterans Advisory Council, Rep. Phillips wrote the Vet Center Support Act to address shortages in veterans’ mental health care across the country.
Continue reading “Ahead of Memorial Day, Rep. Phillips Introduces Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Access to Lifesaving Mental Health Care”