WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Improving Mental Health Care and Coordination for Homeless Veterans Act. This bill would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) homeless program staff to identify and support veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in order to identify appropriate housing options and mental health care.

“After serving our nation, veterans deserve timely access to quality care, including stable housing and mental health support when needed,” said Congressman Valadao. “I'm proud to introduce the Improving Mental Health Care and Coordination for Homeless Veterans Act to help ensure vulnerable veterans don't slip through the cracks by strengthening VA coordination and accountability and helping connect them with the benefits they've earned."

"The Improving Mental Health Care and Coordination for Homeless Veterans Act, championed by my friend and colleague Rep. Valadao, is critically needed legislation that would require VA employees to conduct assessments for homeless veterans who may need mental health care and support,” said Chairman Bost. “It should go without saying that our homeless veterans deserve the best care and support, and they should receive the assistance they need to get their lives back on track – without VA bureaucracy getting in the way."

The Improving Mental Health Care and Coordination for Homeless Veterans Act would:

• Ensure VA conducts a comprehensive assessment within three days of identifying a veteran in need of homeless program services.
• Require VA to evaluate both immediate and long-term mental and physical health needs and develop a clear plan of support.
• Direct VA to identify appropriate housing options as part of each assessment.
• Ensure assessment information is consistent with and included in the veteran’s electronic health record.

Read the full bill here.

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