Lawmakers have approved a bill that allows the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs to create and manage a healthcare system across the state. The system will cater to the healthcare needs of veterans living in Alabama.
According to Brandon Miller from the Alabama Department of Veteran Affairs, it is essential to customize mental health services to veterans when providing assistance to our heroes.
As of June 1, the Veterans Access to Care Bill, also known as State Bill 135, has been passed by the state legislature. Alabama currently lacks any mental health resources specifically designed for veterans, but this bill aims to change that.
A committee was created to tackle the behavioral health needs of Alabama veterans, recognizing the deficiencies in the healthcare service provided to them. The aim is to develop a comprehensive plan to address these gaps.
Brandon Miller emphasized the need for tailored services for the veteran community, especially in areas such as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and other military service-related issues. While acknowledging the great work done by crisis centers and other programs, he expressed concern over the lack of support at the state level.
The governor will receive a detailed plan from the newly formed steering committee in June 2025, following their inaugural meeting in August 2024.
