Bill 118 s 3341, the Advancing VA's Emergency Response to (AVERT) Crises Act of 2023, aims to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) ability to respond to emergencies and crises affecting veterans. The bill focuses on enhancing the VA's emergency preparedness and response capabilities to better serve veterans in times of need.
Key provisions of the bill include:
1. Establishing a task force within the VA to develop and implement strategies for improving emergency response coordination and communication.
2. Enhancing training for VA personnel on responding to emergencies and crises, including mental health crises.
3. Improving the VA's ability to provide timely and effective support to veterans in crisis situations, such as suicide prevention and intervention.
4. Strengthening partnerships with other federal agencies, state and local governments, and community organizations to enhance emergency response efforts.
5. Increasing funding for emergency response programs and initiatives within the VA.
Overall, the AVERT Crises Act of 2023 aims to ensure that the VA is better equipped to respond to emergencies and crises affecting veterans, ultimately improving the quality of care and support provided to those who have served our country.