Veterans Treatment Court Improvement Act of 2018

Floor Speech

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Mr. TAKANO. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2147, as amended, the Veterans Treatment Court Improvement Act of 2018.

This bill would require VA to expand access to Veterans Justice Outreach specialists in an effort to aid veterans as they interact with the justice system.

Dealing with veterans who break the law can be complicated. While they should be held accountable for their crimes, there are frequently underlying factors, like substance abuse or PTSD, that come into play. Transitioning from the battlefield to civilian life can be tough for many.

These specialists are integral to VHA's efforts to ensure veterans avoid unnecessary criminalization of mental illness and extended incarceration among veterans.

Veterans treatment courts are proven ways to ensure veterans receive the treatment and support necessary to avoid recidivism. I have visited the Riverside County Veterans Treatment Court and witnessed firsthand the stellar services it offers veterans in my community.

That is why I believe this bill is so important, as it would ensure veterans have the assistance and support they need to navigate successfully through the justice system.

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Mr. TAKANO. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Arizona (Ms. Sinema) who, though she is not a member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, has had a distinguished record of serving our veterans through very, very significant legislation.

Let me just say that I have personally witnessed the effectiveness of these courts in my own community. They have saved lives; they have fixed lives; they have repaired lives; and they have afforded our veterans a measure of dignity as they heal from their experiences in battle.

So I ask all my colleagues to please join me in passing H.R. 2147, as amended.

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