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PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act

3/14/2024, 4:05 AM

Summary of Bill HR 2768

Bill 118 hr 2768, also known as the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The bill aims to establish a program to provide peer-to-peer support for veterans who are experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues.

The program, named after Army Private First Class Joseph P. Dwyer who struggled with PTSD after serving in Iraq and tragically passed away in 2014, would connect veterans with trained peer support specialists who have also experienced PTSD and can provide understanding and guidance. These specialists would offer emotional support, share coping strategies, and help veterans navigate the mental health system.

The bill outlines the requirements for the program, including training for peer support specialists, coordination with existing mental health services, and reporting on the program's effectiveness. It also authorizes funding for the program to ensure its successful implementation. Overall, the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act aims to improve mental health support for veterans by providing them with peer support from individuals who have walked in their shoes. The bill has garnered bipartisan support in Congress and is seen as a positive step towards addressing the mental health needs of our nation's veterans.

Congressional Summary of HR 2768

PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act

This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program to make grants to eligible entities for peer-to-peer mental health programs for veterans.

Eligible entities include (1) a nonprofit organization that has historically served the mental health needs of veterans; (2) a congressionally chartered veteran service organization; or (3) a state, local, or tribal veteran service agency, director, or commissioner.

The VA shall establish an advisory committee to create appropriate program standards.

Current Status of Bill HR 2768

Bill HR 2768 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since April 25, 2023. Bill HR 2768 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on April 20, 2023.  Bill HR 2768's most recent activity was Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held as of July 18, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 2768

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
58
Democrat Cosponsors
40
Republican Cosponsors
18
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 2768

Primary Policy Focus

Armed Forces and National Security

Potential Impact Areas

- Advisory bodies
- Government lending and loan guarantees
- Mental health
- Veterans' medical care

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 2768

PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act
PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act
To authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make grants to State and local entities to carry out peer-to-peer mental health programs.

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