The House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

83rd Legislature

May 14, 2014

10:00 a.m.

111 East Pecan St. San Antonio, TX 78205

Pursuant to a notice posted on May 7, 2014, the House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs and the House Committee on County Affairs met in a joint public interim hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Menéndez, at 10:00 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Menéndez; Sheffield, Ralph; Farias; and Miller, Rick.

(Representative Collier now present.)

Chairman Menendez laid out Interim Charge 4

Study the implementation of SB 462 (83R). Examine which counties currently have veterans courts, as well as veterans courts in other states, and determine how those programs are working and whether these courts provide additional services or resources for veterans. Make appropriate recommendations. (Joint charge with the House Committee on County Affairs)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Chairman Menendez laid out Interim Charge 6

Monitor the implementation of HB 2392 (83R), Peer-to-Peer Mental Health Program, administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, particularly the  interface with local mental health authorities and veterans' groups, with a focus on  issues related to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 4:30 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Menéndez, Chair

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Dwight Clark, Clerk