Lawmakers reintroduce a bipartisan bill to implement a suicide-prevention model at VA centers, aiming to tackle veteran suicides.
SAN ANTONIO — A renewed national effort is underway to strengthen mental-health resources for veterans, as lawmakers aim to reduce the number of veteran suicides across the country.
Congressman Tony Gonzales has reintroduced the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act, a bill first brought forward in 2023 but which did not make it through the House. Gonzales is again partnering with Nevada Congresswoman Susie Lee to push the legislation as a bipartisan measure.
The initiative is based on a suicide-prevention model developed by the Henry Ford Health Care System and would be implemented at five VA medical centers nationwide. The program focuses on comprehensive suicide-risk assessments, intervention strategies tailored to individual risk factors, firearm-safety protocols, self-management tools for veterans, family involvement in treatment, and stronger connections to community resources.
Supporters say the model is built on the belief that all suicides are preventable with the right care and oversight. Gonzales’ office says early data shows the approach can reduce both suicide rates and overall risk.
The bill has already been endorsed by the VFW and Disabled American Veterans, two of the country’s largest veterans’ organizations.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1.
For more information, visit their website.