Veterans Mental Health Crisis Referral Enhancement Act of 2025

Bill 119 hr 1290, also known as the "Veterans Mental Health Care Access Act," aims to address the mental health needs of veterans by directing the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to implement a pilot program. This program would involve referring veterans who are experiencing mental health crises to non-Department mental health care providers that have been approved by the VA.

The goal of this pilot program is to provide veterans with timely access to mental health care services outside of the VA system, particularly during times of crisis. By partnering with approved non-Department providers, the VA hopes to expand the options available to veterans seeking mental health treatment and improve overall access to care.

In addition to establishing the pilot program, the bill also includes provisions for evaluating the effectiveness of the program and reporting on its outcomes. This will allow Congress and the VA to assess the impact of the program and make any necessary adjustments to improve its effectiveness. Overall, the Veterans Mental Health Care Access Act seeks to improve mental health care services for veterans by expanding access to care during times of crisis and providing additional options for treatment outside of the VA system.