Brownley Bill Approved by Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee

Statement

Today, the Female Veteran Suicide Prevention Act (H.R. 2915), legislation authored by Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village), was approved by the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health. Brownley serves as the Subcommittee's Ranking Member.

"Since coming to Congress, I have been working diligently to break down barriers preventing our veterans from receiving the care they need," said Congresswoman Brownley. "My bill will ensure that the VA and Congress understand the unique mental health needs of female veterans, which is why I am so pleased to report that it was approved by the Subcommittee. I look forward to seeing this legislation continue to move forward."

The Female Veteran Suicide Prevention Act (H.R. 2915) would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to evaluate suicide prevention and mental health programs with women-specific metrics to ensure VA and Congress have a deeper understanding of which programs and approaches work best for women veterans.

Brownley introduced this bill in direct response to a recent report detailing the high rates of suicide among female veterans when compared to civilian women, which serves as a wake-up call and emphasizes the unique circumstances facing female veterans who have transitioned back into civilian life.

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