Kaine and McSally’s Veteran Treatment Court Bill Passes Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Martha McSally (R-AZ) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) announced that the Senate unanimously passed their bipartisan legislation to expand access to veteran treatment courts for veterans in need today. 

U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tina Smith (D-MN), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) are co-sponsors of the legislation.

The Veteran Treatment Court Coordination Act of 2019 establishes a program in coordination with the Department of Veterans Affairs, to help state, local, and tribal governments to develop and maintain veteran treatment courts. The bill would provide grants, training, and technical assistance for veteran treatment courts and communities interested in starting a program.

“Some veterans come home with invisible wounds that result in addiction or trouble with the law,” said McSally. “Instead of spiraling down, veteran treatment courts provide an opportunity for vets to receive treatment and add accountability to reverse that spiral, heal, and continue to contribute positively to society. I have seen their powerful lifesaving impact first-hand in Arizona and look forward to getting our bill to the president's desk to help more vets around the country.”

“As veterans return home, the transition to civilian life can often be complicated by PTSD, brain injury, or other trauma and mental health issues. Veteran treatment courts have played a critical role in the criminal justice system by working to help get our veterans get back on track,” Kaine said. “I’m proud of this bipartisan legislation that will expand access to these courts, help rehabilitate those in need, and reduce recidivism.”

On November 5, McSally introduced the Veteran Treatment Court Coordination Act of 2019.

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