Bipartisan bill targets veteran suicide prevention through improved data collection

Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), along with Congressmen Greg Landsman (D-OH), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), and Chris Deluzio (D-PA), has introduced the What Works for Preventing Veteran Suicide Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to enhance the effectiveness of suicide prevention programs within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The bill is designed to address the high rates of veteran suicides by improving data collection and transparency, ensuring that resources are directed towards the most effective initiatives.

"Veteran suicide is a crisis we cannot afford to overlook, especially as the numbers continue to climb. As someone who served alongside many of these brave men and women, I am committed to ensuring we bring this number down and eventually to zero," stated Congressman Luttrell. "This bill will help us understand which programs are truly working, so we can maximize on those efforts and save lives."

The proposed legislation includes several key measures: establishing clear objectives for VA suicide prevention pilot programs and grants before they commence; developing comprehensive methodologies for data collection timing, frequency, and criteria; and requiring the VA to share program results with stakeholders, advocacy groups, and policymakers. These steps aim to ensure transparency and foster collaboration in tackling veteran suicide.