Veterans and their families would have better access to domestic abuse prevention and treatment resources thanks to a new bill from Senate Veterans Committee Chairman Bruce Anderson (R-Buffalo).

Senate File 1118 appropriates $796,000 over the next two years for veteran domestic abuse prevention that provides interdisciplinary, trauma-informed treatment and evidence-informed intervention. Treatment and service options can include individual and group therapy, evaluation and research programming, and short- and long-term case management services to improve mental health and overall wellbeing.

“Domestic violence is never, ever, ever excusable,” said Sen. Anderson. “But we also recognize that veterans who have done tours overseas or experienced severe PTSD too often react in ways they may not have prior to their service. It is heartbreaking for everyone involved, which is why it is so important these veterans and their families know there are resources out there to help them cope with their challenges and improve their mental health.”

After the bill hearing, the committee laid the bill over for possible inclusion in their budget bill later in session.