A new bill by a South Coast legislator intended to get more rapid mental health services for veterans has been passed by the State Assembly.
AB 2325 bans counties from denying mental aid to veterans because they might be covered the federal Department of Veterans Affairs.
Democratic Assemblywoman Jacqui Irwin of Thousand Oaks says the lack of easily available services may worsen suicidal behavior, which has been a growing problem among younger veterans.
Irwin says the legislation is intended to ensure veterans in crisis aren’t being told by county agencies that they need to go the VA rather than getting immediate help. The bill now goes to the State Senate for consideration.