New Program to Help Better Understand Veteran Suicide Signed into Law

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Governor Mike Parson signed into law what many are referring to as the Veteran Omnibus Bills, Senate Bill 912, and HB1495 on Thursday.

In these bills, the Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC) is charged with creating a new program to aid in the efforts to prevent Veteran suicide. The Veterans Mental Health Program will be the Commission’s fourth core program. MVC also operates the Veterans Homes Program, Veterans Cemeteries Program, and the Veterans Service Program. MVC is working on a timeline for the rollout of the new program. SB912 and HB1495 require MVC to review the provisions of the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2019 and all subsequent regulations and then compile an annual report first due on July 1, 2025.

MVC will work in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Mental Health to “provide recommendations and make efforts to adopt procedures, programs, treatment options, aid, and other assistance necessary to assist in the efforts to prevent Veteran suicide.” The Missouri Veterans Commission operates seven State Veterans Homes, five Veterans Cemeteries, and the Veterans Services Program. The Commission is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care for Veterans, seamlessly integrated with the Veteran community, emphasizing a culture of transparency and excellence.

For more information about Missouri Veterans Commission programs, call 573-751-3779 or visit mvc.dps.mo.gov.