Ranking Member Takano Applauds Va Implementation of New Program to Care for Veterans Experiencing Suicidal Crisis

Press Release

Today, House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Ranking Member Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released the following statement after the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that, starting on January 17, 2023, veterans experiencing an acute suicidal crisis can receive no-cost emergency mental health care at VA or non-VA healthcare facilities. This new benefit is the result of Rep. Takano's COMPACT Act, which was signed into law in December of 2020.

"I am thrilled by Secretary McDonough's announcement that, beginning next week, VA will fully cover the cost of mental health stabilization care for veterans experiencing suicidal emergencies," said Ranking Member Takano. "This new benefit removes cost from the equation when veterans are at imminent risk of self-harm and allows them to access lifesaving care when they need it most, regardless of whether the veteran has ever enrolled in or used VA healthcare benefits. VA's launch of the program I championed marks a major step forward in the fight to reduce veteran suicide, but there is more work to do. As we embark on a new year and a new Congress, I will continue to prioritize meaningful solutions to help save veterans' lives."

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