Helping Veterans Successfully Adjust to Life after Combat and Deployment

Press Release

U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) invites all residents of the 14th Congressional District, especially veterans and their families, to an informational forum on "one-stop shop" Veterans Treatment Courts for all service members, including those struggling to successfully adjust to life after returning home from combat and deployment.

"Our veterans want to live successful, meaningful lives--but overcoming the scars of deployment and battle is a struggle for many. We should help by giving them the tools they need," said Rep. Hultgren. "Veterans Treatment Courts provide veterans the structure, accountability, treatment and access to the benefits they need to adjust back into their communities well and avoid incarceration. These veterans-only courts ensure the entire judicial system is focused on the variety of veterans' needs and struggles, and can support them through tough times. At the forum, I want to hear from community leaders already establishing these programs, and those who want to get these programs off the ground, and learn how I can help. I encourage the entire community to attend and learn more about these important lifelines for our veterans."

According to Justice for Vets, one in five veterans has symptoms of a mental health disorder or cognitive impairment and one in six veterans who served in the Iraq War suffer from a substance abuse issue. Substance abuse, combat-related mental illnesses and resulting involvement in the criminal justice system plagues the veteran community. Veterans Treatment Courts provide an alternative to incarceration and a support system for veterans to ensure they meet their obligations to themselves, the court and their community.

This year, Governor Rauner signed legislation that requires all Illinois counties to establish Veterans Treatment Court program by 2017. Currently, only 12 counties have done so, four of which are in the 14th District: DuPage, Lake, McHenry and Will.

Click here to learn more about how Rep. Hultgren is fighting to veterans in Congress, including pushing for reform at the VA and supporting legislation to help veterans find jobs, protect their credit score and receive the benefits they have earned.

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