ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Fifty-sixth Legislature First Regular Session
	Senate: APPROP DP 10-0-0-0 | MAPS DP 7-0-0-0 | 3^rd Read DPA 24-4-2-0

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SB 1454: veteran suicide prevention; pilot program

Sponsor: Senator Shope, LD 16

Committee on Military Affairs & Public Safety

Overview

Establishes the Veteran Suicide Prevention Training Pilot Program (Program) in the Arizona Department of Veteran Services (ADVS) and appropriates $600,000 and one FTE position from the State General Fund (GF) to ADVS for FY 2024.

History

ADVS informs veterans and various groups about federal, state and local laws enacted to benefit veterans and their dependents, as well as collect information of available services. It is required for ADVS to evaluate, supervise and approve programs offered by educational institutions and training establishments. Additionally, ADVS may establish a training center to provide training to current or potential employees and the veteran community (A.R.S. §41-603).

Provisions

1. Creates the Program in ADVS to offer claims examiners and county and municipal veteran service offices specialized training and certification in preventing veteran suicides. (Sec. 1)

2. Directs ADVS to contract with an experienced organization in developing and implementing veteran-relevant and evidence-based suicide prevention training. (Sec. 1)

3. Instructs ADVS to establish and oversee the selection process for Program participants and provide certification upon completion of training. (Sec. 1)

4. Requires the Program to train participants to: 1) identify indicators of elevated suicide risk in veterans; and 2) provide emergency crisis referrals for veterans expressing or exhibiting symptoms of emotional or psychological distress. (Sec. 1)

5. Instructs ADVS to submit an annual report to specified members of the legislature that includes information concerning the Program and whether changes are needed to increase effectiveness. (Sec. 1)

6. Instructs ADVS, in its final report, to recommend whether the Program should continue. (Sec. 1)

7. Directs ADVS to adopt rules necessary for the Program. (Sec. 1)

8. Repeals the Program on January 1, 2028. (Sec. 2)

9. Appropriates $600,000 and one FTE position from the GF to ADVS in FY 2024. (Sec. 3)

10. Allows ADVS to spend up to $100,000 of the appropriated monies to hire one program specialist and pay for other administrative costs, including marketing, associated with the Program. (Sec. 3)

11. Exempts the appropriation from lapsing. (Sec. 3)

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                        SB 1454

Initials NM/CV Page 0 Military Affairs & Public Safety

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