BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	S.B. 460
87R5137 MWC-D	By: Lucio
	Veteran Affairs & Border Security
	3/19/2021
	As Filed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

In approximately two-thirds of veteran suicides, the veteran is not in contact with the United States Department of Veteran Affairs and receiving services. Depression is often coupled with isolation and lack of feeling connected. To decrease veteran suicide, there needs to be increased veteran connectedness. S.B. 460 will help normalize and promote veteran connectedness, which will improve mental health and normalize the discussion of receiving available services.

S.B. 460 creates Buddy Check Day, one day every month where veterans are encouraged to reach out to fellow veterans. Also, it directs the Texas Veterans Commission to educate and promote services surrounding this day. This can become a day that normalizes open communication regarding services available to veterans. 

As proposed, S.B. 460 amends current law relating to designating the 11th day of each month as Buddy Check Day.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter C, Chapter 662, Government Code, by adding Section 662.083, as follows:

Sec. 662.083.  BUDDY CHECK DAY. (a) Provides that the 11th day of each month is Buddy Check Day to encourage veterans to contact other veterans, including those with whom they served, who may need assistance.

(b)  Authorizes Buddy Check Day to be regularly observed by appropriate programs and activities coordinated by the Texas Veterans Commission to promote assistance and other services available to veterans and promote education and awareness of issues facing veterans.

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2021.