Dear Friend, 

When our veterans come home, we expect their battles to be over. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. In 2020, there were 6,146 veteran suicides in the United States. This represents an average of nearly 17 veteran suicides per day. In the same year, the veteran suicide rate was 57.3% higher than non-veterans. This is unthinkable.

For those experiencing a mental health crisis, even small barriers to treatment, like having to figure out where to turn for help, can be life-threatening. In July of 2022, we saw the implementation of the new 9-8-8 National Suicide Prevention Hotline. With the new 9-8-8 hotline, intervention will be as accessible and straightforward as any other emergency. We were proud to support this life-saving effort to ensure our veterans and all Americans have access to mental health support in times of need.

We are happy to announce that as of January 17, 2023, veterans in an acute suicidal crisis will be able to visit any VA or non-VA health care facility for emergency health care at no cost. This includes inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days and outpatient care for up to 90 days. veterans do not be enrolled in the VA system to use this benefit. As a result, this policy change will increase access to mental health care for up to 9 million veterans who are not currently enrolled with the VA.

Those who have sacrificed so much for our country must know that they will be supported when they return home. As the 118th Congress begins, we will continue to do all we can to support our veterans who are struggling with mental health challenges.

If you need assistance with the VA or another federal agency, please contact my office by visiting https://emmer.house.gov/casework or calling 763-241-6848. We are here to help.

Sincerely,