§ 1712A. Eligibility for readjustment counseling and related mental health services

Pub. L. 114–2, § 3, Feb. 12, 2015, 129 Stat. 31, provided that: “(a) In General.—Using funds made available to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to publish the Internet websites of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary shall survey the existing Internet websites and information resources of the Department to publish an Internet website that serves as a centralized source to provide veterans with information regarding all of the mental health care services provided by the Secretary. “(b) Elements.—The Internet website published under subsection (a) shall provide to veterans information regarding all of the mental health care services available in the Veteran Integrated Service Network that the veteran is seeking such services, including, with respect to each medical center, Vet Center (as defined in section 1712A of title 38, United States Code), and community-based outpatient center in the Veterans Integrated Service Network—“(1) the name and contact information of each social work office; “(2) the name and contact information of each mental health clinic; “(3) a list of appropriate staff; and “(4) any other information the Secretary determines appropriate. “(c) Updated Information.—The Secretary shall ensure that the information described in subsection (b) that is published on the Internet website under subsection (a) is updated not less than once every 90 days. “(d) Outreach.—In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the outreach conducted under section 1720F(i) of title 38, United States Code, includes information regarding the Internet website published under subsection (a).”

Pilot Program on Community Outreach

Pub. L. 114–2, § 5, Feb. 12, 2015, 129 Stat. 34, as amended by Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title V, § 563, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 829; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title X, § 1081(c)(1), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2419, provided that: “(a) In General.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish a pilot program to assist veterans transitioning from serving on active duty and to improve the access of veterans to mental health services. “(b) Locations.—The Secretary shall carry out the pilot program under subsection (a) at not less than five Veterans Integrated Service Networks that have a large population of veterans who—“(1) served in the reserve components of the Armed Forces; or “(2) are transitioning into communities with an established population of veterans after having recently separated from the Armed Forces. “(c) Functions.—The pilot program at each Veterans Integrated Service Network described in subsection (b) shall include the following:“(1) A community oriented veteran peer support network, carried out in partnership with an appropriate entity with experience in peer support programs, that—“(A) establishes peer support training guidelines; “(B) develops a network of veteran peer support counselors to meet the demands of the communities in the Veterans Integrated Service Network; “(C) conducts training of veteran peer support counselors; “(D) with respect to one medical center selected by the Secretary in each such Veterans Integrated Service Network, has—“(i) a designated peer support specialist who acts as a liaison to the community oriented veteran peer network; and “(ii) a certified mental health professional designated as the community oriented veteran peer network mentor; and “(E) is readily available to veterans, including pursuant to the Veterans Integrated Service Network cooperating and working with State and local governments and appropriate entities. “(2) A community outreach team for each medical center selected by the Secretary pursuant to paragraph (1)(D) that—“(A) assists veterans transitioning into communities; “(B) establishes a veteran transition advisory group to facilitate outreach activities; “(C) includes the participation of appropriate community organizations, State and local governments, colleges and universities, chambers of commerce and other local business organizations, and organizations that provide legal aid or advice; “(D) coordinates with the Veterans Integrated Service Network regarding the Veterans Integrated Service Network carrying out an annual mental health summit to assess the status of veteran mental health care in the community and to develop new or innovative means to provide mental health services to veterans; and “(E) conducts outreach to individuals transitioning from serving on active duty in the Armed Forces who are participating in the Transition Assistance Program of the Department of Defense or other similar transition programs to inform such individuals of the community oriented veteran peer support network under paragraph (1) and other support programs and opportunities that are available to such individuals. “(d) Reports.—“(1) Initial report.—Not later than 18 months after the date on which the pilot program under subsection (a) commences, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a report on the pilot program. With respect to each Veterans Integrated Service Network described in subsection (b), the report shall include—“(A) a full description of the peer support model implemented under the pilot program, participation data, and data pertaining to past and current mental health related hospitalizations and fatalities; “(B) recommendations on implementing peer support networks throughout the Department; “(C) whether the mental health resources made available under the pilot program for members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces is effective; “(D) a full description of the activities and effectiveness of community outreach coordinating teams under the pilot program, including partnerships that have been established with appropriate entities; and “(E) the number of veterans who—“(i) received outreach from the Department of Veterans Affairs while serving on active duty as a member of the Armed Forces; and “(ii) participated in a peer support program under the pilot program for veterans transitioning from serving on active duty. “(2) Final report.—Not later than 90 days before the date on which the pilot program terminates under subsection (e), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives an update to the report submitted under paragraph (1). “(e) Construction.—This section may not be construed to authorize the Secretary to hire additional employees of the Department to carry out the pilot program under subsection (a). “(f) Termination.—The authority of the Secretary to carry out the pilot program under subsection (a) shall terminate on the date that is 3 years after the date on which the pilot program commences.”

[Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title X, § 1081(c), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2419, provided that the amendment made by section 1081(c)(1) to section 563 of Pub. L. 114–92, which amended section 5 of Pub. L. 114–2, set out above, is effective as of Nov. 25, 2015, and as if included in Pub. L. 114–92 as enacted.]

Participation of Members of the Armed Forces in Peer Support Counseling Programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs

Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VII, § 724, Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1805, provided that: “(a) Participation.—“(1) In general.—The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly enter into a memorandum of understanding providing for members of the Armed Forces described in subsection (b) to volunteer or be considered for employment as peer counselors under the following:“(A) The peer support counseling program carried out by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs under subsection (j) of section 1720F of title 38, United States Code, as part of the comprehensive program for suicide prevention among veterans under subsection (a) of such section. “(B) The peer support counseling program carried out by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs under section 304(a)(1) of the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010 (Public Law 111–163; 124 Stat. 1150; 38 U.S.C. 1712A note). “(2) Training.—Any member participating in a peer support counseling program under paragraph (1) shall receive the training for peer counselors under section 1720F(j)(2) of title 38, United States Code, or section 304(c) of the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010, as applicable, before performing peer support counseling duties under such program. “(b) Covered Members.—Members of the Armed Forces described in this subsection are the following:“(1) Members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces who are demobilizing after deployment in a theater of combat operations, including, in particular, members who participated in combat against the enemy while so deployed. “(2) Members of the regular components of the Armed Forces separating from active duty who have been deployed in a theater of combat operations in which such members participated in combat against the enemy.”

Transparency in Mental Health Care Services Provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs

Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VII, § 726, Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1806, provided that: “(a) Measurement of Mental Health Care Services.—“(1) In general.—Not later than December 31, 2013, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall develop and implement a comprehensive set of measures to assess mental health care services furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs. “(2) Elements.—The measures developed and implemented under paragraph (1) shall provide an accurate and comprehensive assessment of the following:“(A) The timeliness of the furnishing of mental health care by the Department. “(B) The satisfaction of patients who receive mental health care services furnished by the Department. “(C) The capacity of the Department to furnish mental health care. “(D) The availability and furnishing of evidence-based therapies by the Department. “(b) Guidelines for Staffing Mental Health Care Services.—Not later than December 31, 2013, the Secretary shall develop and implement guidelines for the staffing of general and specialty mental health care services, including at community-based outpatient clinics. Such guidelines shall include productivity standards for providers of mental health care. “(c) Study Committee.—“(1) In general.—The Secretary shall seek to enter into a contract with the National Academy of Sciences to create a study committee—“(A) to consult with the Secretary on the Secretary’s development and implementation of the measures and guidelines required by subsections (a) and (b); and “(B) to conduct an assessment and provide an analysis and recommendations on the state of Department mental health services. “(2) Functions.—In entering into the contract described in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall, with respect to paragraph (1)(B), include in such contract a provision for the study committee—“(A) to conduct a comprehensive assessment of barriers to access to mental health care by veterans who served in the Armed Forces in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation New Dawn; “(B) to assess the quality of the mental health care being provided to such veterans (including the extent to which veterans are afforded choices with respect to modes of treatment) through site visits to facilities of the Veterans Health Administration (including at least one site visit in each Veterans Integrated Service Network), evaluating studies of patient outcomes, and other appropriate means; “(C) to assess whether, and the extent to which, veterans who served in the Armed Forces in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation New Dawn are being offered a full range of necessary mental health services at Department health care facilities, including early intervention services for hazardous drinking, relationship problems, and other behaviors that create a risk for the development of a chronic mental health condition; “(D) to conduct surveys or have access to Department-administered surveys of—“(i) providers of Department mental health services; “(ii) veterans who served in the Armed Forces in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation New Dawn who are receiving mental health care furnished by the Department; and “(iii) eligible veterans who served in the Armed Forces in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation New Dawn who are not using Department health care services to assess those barriers described in subparagraph (A); and “(E) to provide to the Secretary, on the basis of its assessments as delineated in subparagraphs (A) through (C), specific, detailed recommendations—“(i) for overcoming barriers, and improving access, to timely, effective mental health care at Department health care facilities (or, where Department facilities cannot provide such care, through contract arrangements under existing law); and “(ii) to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of mental health services furnished by the Secretary. “(3) Participation by former officials and employees of veterans health administration.—The Secretary shall ensure that any contract entered into under paragraph (1) provides for inclusion on any subcommittee which participates in conducting the assessments and formulating the recommendations provided for in paragraph (2) at least one former official of the Veterans Health Administration and at least two former employees of the Veterans Health Administration who were providers of mental health care. “(4) Periodic reports to secretary.—In entering into the contract described in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall, with respect to paragraph (1)(A), include in such contract a provision for the submittal to the Secretary of periodic reports and provision of other consultation to the Secretary by the study committee to assist the Secretary in carrying out subsections (a) and (b). “(5) Reports to congress.—Not later than 30 days after receiving a report under paragraph (4), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a report on the plans of the Secretary to implement such recommendations submitted to the Secretary by the study committee as the Secretary considers appropriate. Such report shall include a description of each recommendation submitted to the Secretary that the Secretary does not plan to carry out and an explanation of why the Secretary does not plan to carry out such recommendation. “(d) Publication.—“(1) In general.—The Secretary shall make available to the public on an Internet website of the Department the following:“(A) The measures and guidelines developed and implemented under this section. “(B) An assessment of the performance of the Department using such measures and guidelines. “(2) Quarterly updates.—The Secretary shall update the measures, guidelines, and assessment made available to the public under paragraph (1) not less frequently than quarterly. “(e) Semiannual Reports.—“(1) In general.—Not later than June 30, 2013, and not less frequently than twice each year thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the committees of Congress specified in subsection (c)(5) a report on the Secretary’s progress in developing and implementing the measures and guidelines required by this section. “(2) Elements.—Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following:“(A) A description of the development and implementation of the measures required by subsection (a) and the guidelines required by subsection (b). “(B) A description of the progress made by the Secretary in developing and implementing such measures and guidelines. “(C) An assessment of the mental health care services furnished by the Department, using the measures developed and implemented under subsection (a). “(D) An assessment of the effectiveness of the guidelines developed and implemented under subsection (b). “(E) Such recommendations for legislative or administrative action as the Secretary may have to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the mental health care services furnished under laws administered by the Secretary. “(f) Implementation Report.—“(1) In general.—Not later than 30 days before the date on which the Secretary begins implementing the measures and guidelines required by this section, the Secretary shall submit to the committees of Congress specified in subsection (c)(5) a report on the Secretary’s planned implementation of such measures and guidelines. “(2) Elements.—The report required by paragraph (1) shall include the following:“(A) A detailed description of the measures and guidelines that the Secretary plans to implement under this section. “(B) A description of the rationale for each measure and guideline the Secretary plans to implement under this section. “(C) A discussion of each measure and guideline that the Secretary considered under this section but chose not to implement. “(D) The number of current vacancies in mental health care provider positions in the Department. “(E) An assessment of how many additional positions are needed to meet current or expected demand for mental health services furnished by the Department.”

Pilot Program on Counseling in Retreat Settings for Women Veterans Newly Separated From Service

Pub. L. 111–163, title II, § 203, May 5, 2010, 124 Stat. 1143, as amended by Pub. L. 113–175, title I, § 102, Sept. 26, 2014, 128 Stat. 1902; Pub. L. 114–58, title I, § 109, Sept. 30, 2015, 129 Stat. 533; Pub. L. 114–228, title I, § 107, Sept. 29, 2016, 130 Stat. 937; Pub. L. 115–62, title I, § 108, Sept. 29, 2017, 131 Stat. 1162; Pub. L. 115–251, title I, § 108, Sept. 29, 2018, 132 Stat. 3168; Pub. L. 116–159, div. E, title I, § 5106, Oct. 1, 2020, 134 Stat. 748, provided that: “(a) Pilot Program Required.—“(1) In general.—Commencing not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [May 5, 2010], the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out, through the Readjustment Counseling Service of the Veterans Health Administration, a pilot program to evaluate the feasibility and advisability of providing reintegration and readjustment services described in subsection (b) in group retreat settings to women veterans who are recently separated from service in the Armed Forces after a prolonged deployment. “(2) Participation at election of veteran.—The participation of a veteran in the pilot program under this section shall be at the election of the veteran. “(b) Covered Services.—The services provided to a woman veteran under the pilot program shall include the following:“(1) Information on reintegration into the veteran’s family, employment, and community. “(2) Financial counseling. “(3) Occupational counseling. “(4) Information and counseling on stress reduction. “(5) Information and counseling on conflict resolution. “(6) Such other information and counseling as the Secretary considers appropriate to assist a woman veteran under the pilot program in reintegration into the veteran’s family, employment, and community. “(c) Locations.—The Secretary shall carry out the pilot program at not fewer than three locations selected by the Secretary for purposes of the pilot program. “(d) Termination.—The authority to carry out a pilot program under this section shall terminate on September 30, 2022. “(e) Report.—Not later than March 31, 2018, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the pilot program. The report shall contain the findings and conclusions of the Secretary as a result of the pilot program, and shall include such recommendations for the continuation or expansion of the pilot program as the Secretary considers appropriate. “(f) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for each of fiscal years 2010, 2011, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, $2,000,000 to carry out the pilot program.”

Program on Readjustment and Mental Health Care Services for Veterans Who Served in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom

Pub. L. 111–163, title III, § 304, May 5, 2010, 124 Stat. 1150, as amended by Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VII, § 730(b)(1), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1814, provided that: “(a) Program Required.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [May 5, 2010], the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish a program to provide—“(1) to veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, particularly veterans who served in such operations while in the National Guard and the Reserves—“(A) peer outreach services; “(B) peer support services; “(C) readjustment counseling and services described in section 1712A of title 38, United States Code; and “(D) mental health services; and “(2) to members of the immediate family of veterans described in paragraph (1), during the 3-year period beginning on the date of the return of such veterans from deployment in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom, education, support, counseling, and mental health services to assist in—“(A) the readjustment of such veterans to civilian life; “(B) in the case such veterans have an injury or illness incurred during such deployment, the recovery of such veterans from such injury or illness; and “(C) the readjustment of the family following the return of such veterans. “(b) Contracts With Community Mental Health Centers and Other Qualified Entities.—In carrying out the program required by subsection (a), the Secretary may contract with community mental health centers and other qualified entities to provide the services required by such subsection only in areas the Secretary determines are not adequately served by other health care facilities or vet centers of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Such contracts shall require each contracting community health center or entity—“(1) to the extent practicable, to use telehealth services for the delivery of services required by subsection (a); “(2) to the extent practicable, to employ veterans trained under subsection (c) in the provision of services covered by that subsection; “(3) to participate in the training program conducted in accordance with subsection (d); “(4) to comply with applicable protocols of the Department before incurring any liability on behalf of the Department for the provision of services required by subsection (a); “(5) for each veteran for whom a community mental health center or other qualified entity provides mental health services under such contract, to provide the Department with such clinical summary information as the Secretary shall require; “(6) to submit annual reports to the Secretary containing, with respect to the program required by subsection (a) and for the last full calendar year ending before the submittal of such report—“(A) the number of the veterans served, veterans diagnosed, and courses of treatment provided to veterans as part of the program required by subsection (a); and “(B) demographic information for such services, diagnoses, and courses of treatment; and “(7) to meet such other requirements as the Secretary shall require. “(c) Training of Veterans for Provision of Peer-outreach and Peer-support Services.—In carrying out the program required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall contract with a national not-for-profit mental health organization to carry out a national program of training for veterans described in subsection (a) to provide the services described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1) of such subsection. “(d) Training of Clinicians for Provision of Services.—The Secretary shall conduct a training program for clinicians of community mental health centers or entities that have contracts with the Secretary under subsection (b) to ensure that such clinicians can provide the services required by subsection (a) in a manner that—“(1) recognizes factors that are unique to the experience of veterans who served on active duty in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom (including their combat and military training experiences); and “(2) uses best practices and technologies. “(e) Provision of Peer Outreach and Peer Support Services at Department Medical Centers.—The Secretary shall carry out the services required by subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (a)(1) at each Department medical center. “(f) Vet Center Defined.—In this section, the term ‘vet center’ means a center for readjustment counseling and related mental health services for veterans under section 1712A of title 38, United States Code.”

[Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VII, § 730(b)(2), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1814, provided that: “The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall commence carrying out the services required by subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (a)(1) of such section [section 304 of Pub. L. 111–163, set out above] at each Department of Veterans Affairs medical center, as required by subsection (e) of such section (as added by paragraph (1)), not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 2, 2013].” ]

Eligibility of Members of the Armed Forces Who Serve in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom for Counseling and Services Through Readjustment Counseling Service

Pub. L. 111–163, title IV, § 401, May 5, 2010, 124 Stat. 1156, provided that: “(a) In General.—Any member of the Armed Forces, including a member of the National Guard or Reserve, who serves on active duty in the Armed Forces in Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom is eligible for readjustment counseling and related mental health services under section 1712A of title 38, United States Code, through the Readjustment Counseling Service of the Veterans Health Administration. “(b) No Requirement for Current Active Duty Service.—A member of the Armed Forces who meets the requirements for eligibility for counseling and services under subsection (a) is entitled to counseling and services under that subsection regardless of whether or not the member is currently on active duty in the Armed Forces at the time of receipt of counseling and services under that subsection. “(c) Regulations.—The eligibility of members of the Armed Forces for counseling and services under subsection (a) shall be subject to such regulations as the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall jointly prescribe for purposes of this section. “(d) Subject to Availability of Appropriations.—The provision of counseling and services under subsection (a) shall be subject to the availability of appropriations for such purpose.”

Pilot Program on Peer Outreach and Support for Veterans and Use of Community Mental Health Centers and Indian Health Service Facilities

Pub. L. 110–387, title I, § 107, Oct. 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 4116, provided that: “(a) Pilot Program Required.—Commencing not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 10, 2008], the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program to assess the feasability [sic] and advisability of providing to veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and, in particular, veterans who served in such operations as a member of the National Guard or Reserve, the following:“(1) Peer outreach services. “(2) Peer support services provided by licensed providers of peer support services or veterans who have personal experience with mental illness. “(3) Readjustment counseling services described in section 1712A of title 38, United States Code. “(4) Other mental health services. “(b) Provision of Certain Services.—In providing services described in paragraphs (3) and (4) of subsection (a) under the pilot program to veterans who reside in rural areas and do not have adequate access through the Department of Veterans Affairs to the services described in such paragraphs, the Secretary shall, acting through the Office of Mental Health Services and the Office of Rural Health, provide such services as follows:“(1) Through community mental health centers under contracts or other agreements if entered into by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Health and Human Services for the provision of such services for purposes of the pilot program. “(2) Through the Indian Health Service, or an Indian tribe or tribal organization that has entered into an agreement with the Indian Health Service pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450 et seq.) [now 25 U.S.C. 5301 et seq.], if a memorandum of understanding is entered into by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Health and Human Services for purposes of the pilot program. “(3) Through other appropriate entities under contracts or other agreements entered into by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for the provision of such services for purposes of the pilot program. “(c) Duration.—The pilot program shall be carried out during the three-year period beginning on the date of the commencement of the pilot program. “(d) Program Locations.—“(1) In general.—The pilot program shall be carried out within areas selected by the Secretary for the purpose of the pilot program in at least three Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs). “(2) Rural geographic locations.—The locations selected shall be in rural geographic locations that, as determined by the Secretary, lack access to comprehensive mental health services through the Department of Veterans Affairs. “(3) Qualified providers.—In selecting locations for the pilot program, the Secretary shall select locations in which an adequate number of licensed mental health care providers with credentials equivalent to those of Department mental health care providers are available in Indian Health Service facilities, community mental health centers, and other entities for participation in the pilot program. “(e) Participation in Program.—Each community mental health center, facility of the Indian Health Service, or other entity participating in the pilot program under subsection (b) shall—“(1) provide the services described in paragraphs (3) and (4) of subsection (a) to eligible veterans, including, to the extent practicable, telehealth services that link the center or facility with Department of Veterans Affairs clinicians; “(2) use the clinical practice guidelines of the Veterans Health Administration or the Department of Defense in the provision of such services; and “(3) meet such other requirements as the Secretary shall require. “(f) Compliance With Department Protocols.—Each community mental health center, facility of the Indian Health Service, or other entity participating in the pilot program under subsection (b) shall comply with—“(1) applicable protocols of the Department before incurring any liability on behalf of the Department for the provision of services as part of the pilot program; and “(2) access and quality standards of the Department relevant to the provision of services as part of the pilot program. “(g) Provision of Clinical Information.—Each community mental health center, facility of the Indian Health Service, or other entity participating in the pilot program under subsection (b) shall, in a timely fashion, provide the Secretary with such clinical information on each veteran for whom such health center or facility provides mental health services under the pilot program as the Secretary shall require. “(h) Training.—“(1) Training of veterans.—As part of the pilot program, the Secretary shall carry out a program of training for veterans described in subsection (a) to provide the services described in paragraphs (1) and (2) of such subsection. “(2) Training of clinicians.—“(A) In general.—The Secretary shall conduct a training program for clinicians of community mental health centers, Indian Health Service facilities, or other entities participating in the pilot program under subsection (b) to ensure that such clinicians can provide the services described in paragraphs (3) and (4) of subsection (a) in a manner that accounts for factors that are unique to the experiences of veterans who served on active duty in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom (including their combat and military training experiences). “(B) Participation in training.—Personnel of each community mental health center, facility of the Indian Health Service, or other entity participating in the pilot program under subsection (b) shall participate in the training program conducted pursuant to subparagraph (A). “(i) Annual Reports.—Each community mental health center, facility of the Indian Health Service, or other entity participating in the pilot program under subsection (b) shall submit to the Secretary on an annual basis a report containing, with respect to the provision of services under subsection (b) and for the last full calendar year ending before the submission of such report—“(1) the number of—“(A) veterans served; and “(B) courses of treatment provided; and “(2) demographic information for such services, diagnoses, and courses of treatment. “(j) Program Evaluation.—“(1) In general.—The Secretary shall, through Department of Veterans Affairs Mental Health Services investigators and in collaboration with relevant program offices of the Department, design and implement a strategy for evaluating the pilot program. “(2) Elements.—The strategy implemented under paragraph (1) shall assess the impact that contracting with community mental health centers, the Indian Health Service, and other entities participating in the pilot program under subsection (b) has on the following:“(A) Access to mental health care by veterans in need of such care. “(B) The use of telehealth services by veterans for mental health care needs. “(C) The quality of mental health care and substance use disorder treatment services provided to veterans in need of such care and services. “(D) The coordination of mental health care and other medical services provided to veterans. “(k) Definitions.—In this section:“(1) The term ‘community mental health center’ has the meaning given such term in section 410.2 of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 10, 2008]). “(2) The term ‘eligible veteran’ means a veteran in need of mental health services who—“(A) is enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs health care system; and “(B) has received a referral from a health professional of the Veterans Health Administration to a community mental health center, a facility of the Indian Health Service, or other entity for purposes of the pilot program. “(3) The term ‘Indian Health Service’ means the organization established by section 601(a) of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (25 U.S.C. 1661(a)). “(l) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.”

Research Program on Comorbid Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use Disorders

Pub. L. 110–387, title II, § 201, Oct. 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 4119, provided that: “(a) Program Required.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall, through the Office of Research and Development, carry out a program of research into comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder. “(b) Discharge Through National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.—The research program required by subsection (a) shall be carried out by the National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. In carrying out the program, the Center shall—“(1) develop protocols and goals with respect to research under the program; and “(2) coordinate research, data collection, and data dissemination under the program. “(c) Research.—The program of research required by subsection (a) shall address the following:“(1) Comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder. “(2) The systematic integration of treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder with treatment for substance use disorder. “(3) The development of protocols to evaluate care of veterans with comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder. “(d) Funding.—“(1) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated for the Department of Veterans Affairs for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2012, $2,000,000 to carry out this section. “(2) Availability.—Amounts authorized to be appropriated by paragraph (1) shall be made available to the National Center on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder for the purpose specified in that paragraph. “(3) Supplement not supplant.—Any amount made available to the National Center on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder for a fiscal year under paragraph (2) is in addition to any other amounts made available to the National Center on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder for such year under any other provision of law.”

Pilot Program on Provision of Readjustment and Transition Assistance to Veterans and Their Families in Cooperation With Vet Centers

Pub. L. 110–387, title III, § 302, Oct. 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 4120, provided that: “(a) Pilot Program.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall carry out, through a non-Department of Veterans Affairs entity, a pilot program to assess the feasability [sic] and advisability of providing readjustment and transition assistance described in subsection (b) to veterans and their families in cooperation with centers under section 1712A of title 38, United States Code (commonly referred to as ‘Vet Centers’). “(b) Readjustment and Transition Assistance.—Readjustment and transition assistance described in this subsection is assistance as follows:“(1) Readjustment and transition assistance that is preemptive, proactive, and principle-centered. “(2) Assistance and training for veterans and their families in coping with the challenges associated with making the transition from military to civilian life. “(c) Non-Department of Veterans Affairs Entity.—“(1) In general.—The Secretary shall carry out the pilot program through any for-profit or non-profit organization selected by the Secretary for purposes of the pilot program that has demonstrated expertise and experience in the provision of assistance and training described in subsection (b). “(2) Contract or agreement.—The Secretary shall carry out the pilot program through a non-Department entity described in paragraph (1) pursuant to a contract or other agreement entered into by the Secretary and the entity for purposes of the pilot program. “(d) Commencement of Pilot Program.—The pilot program shall commence not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 10, 2008]. “(e) Duration of Pilot Program.—The pilot program shall be carried out during the three-year period beginning on the date of the commencement of the pilot program, and may be carried out for additional one-year periods thereafter. “(f) Location of Pilot Program.—“(1) In general.—The Secretary shall provide assistance under the pilot program in cooperation with 10 centers described in subsection (a) designated by the Secretary for purposes of the pilot program. “(2) Designations.—In designating centers described in subsection (a) for purposes of the pilot program, the Secretary shall designate centers so as to provide a balanced geographical representation of such centers throughout the United States, including the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, tribal lands, and other territories and possessions of the United States. “(g) Participation of Centers.—A center described in subsection (a) that is designated under subsection (f) for participation in the pilot program shall participate in the pilot program by promoting awareness of the assistance and training available to veterans and their families through—“(1) the facilities and other resources of such center; “(2) the non-Department of Veterans Affairs entity selected pursuant to subsection (c); and “(3) other appropriate mechanisms. “(h) Additional Support.—In carrying out the pilot program, the Secretary may enter into contracts or other agreements, in addition to the contract or agreement described in subsection (c), with such other non-Department of Veterans Affairs entities meeting the requirements of subsection (c) as the Secretary considers appropriate for purposes of the pilot program. “(i) Report on Pilot Program.—“(1) Report required.—Not later than three years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 10, 2008], the Secretary shall submit to the congressional veterans affairs committees a report on the pilot program. “(2) Elements.—Each report under paragraph (1) shall include the following:“(A) A description of the activities under the pilot program as of the date of such report, including the number of veterans and families provided assistance under the pilot program and the scope and nature of the assistance so provided. “(B) A current assessment of the effectiveness of the pilot program. “(C) Any recommendations that the Secretary considers appropriate for the extension or expansion of the pilot program. “(3) Congressional veterans affairs committees defined.—In this subsection, the term ‘congressional veterans affairs committees’ means—“(A) the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs and Appropriations of the Senate; and “(B) the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs and Appropriations of the House of Representatives. “(j) Authorization of Appropriations.—“(1) In general.—There is authorized to be appropriated for the Department of Veterans Affairs for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2011 $1,000,000 to carry out this section. “(2) Availability.—Amounts authorized to be appropriated by paragraph (1) shall remain available until expended.”

Improvement and Expansion of Mental Health Services

Pub. L. 109–461, title II, § 203, Dec. 22, 2006, 120 Stat. 3410, provided that: “(a) Required Capacity for Community-Based Outpatient Clinics.—“(1) In general.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that each community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs has the capacity to provide, or monitor the provision of, mental health services to enrolled veterans who, as determined by the Secretary, are in need of such services. “(2) Settings.—In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure that mental health services are provided through—“(A) a community-based outpatient clinic of the Department by an employee of the Department; “(B) referral to another facility of the Department; “(C) contract with an appropriate mental health professional in the community; or “(D) telemental health services. “(b) Clinical Training and Protocols.—“(1) Collaboration.—The National Center on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder of the Department of Veterans Affairs shall collaborate with the Secretary of Defense—“(A) to enhance the clinical skills of military clinicians on matters relating to post-traumatic stress disorder through training, treatment protocols, web-based interventions, and the development of evidence-based interventions; and “(B) to promote pre-deployment resilience and post-deployment readjustment among members of the Armed Forces serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. “(2) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2007 $2,000,000 to carry out this subsection. “(c) Mental Health Outreach.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall—“(1) develop additional educational materials on post-traumatic stress disorder; and “(2) undertake additional efforts to educate veterans about post-traumatic stress disorder. “(d) Review of PTSD Clinical Guidelines.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall—“(1) review the clinical guidelines of the Department of Veterans Affairs on post-traumatic stress disorder and all appropriate protocols related to post-traumatic stress disorder; “(2) revise such guidelines and protocols as the Secretary considers appropriate to ensure that clinicians are able to effectively distinguish between diagnoses with similar symptoms that may manifest as post-traumatic stress disorder, including traumatic brain injury; and “(3) develop performance measures for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder among veterans.”

Expansion of Telehealth Services

Pub. L. 109–461, title II, § 205, Dec. 22, 2006, 120 Stat. 3411, provided that: “(a) In General.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall increase the number of facilities of the Readjustment Counseling Service that are capable of providing health services and counseling through telehealth linkages with facilities of the Veterans Health Administration. “(b) Plan.—Not later than July 1, 2007, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of Representatives a plan to implement the requirement in subsection (a). The plan shall specify which facilities of the Readjustment Counseling Service will have the capabilities described in subsection (a) as of the end of each of fiscal years 2007, 2008, and 2009.”

Expansion of Outreach Activities of Vet Centers

Pub. L. 109–461, title II, § 215, Dec. 22, 2006, 120 Stat. 3424, provided that: “(a) Additional Outreach Workers.—The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall employ not fewer than 100 veterans for the purpose of providing outreach to veterans on the availability of readjustment counseling and related mental health services for veterans under section 1712A of title 38, United States Code. “(b) Construction With Current Outreach Program.—The veterans employed under subsection (a) are in addition to any veterans employed by the Secretary for the purpose described in that subsection under the February 2004 program of the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide outreach described in that subsection. “(c) Assignment to Vet Centers.—The Secretary may assign any veteran employed under subsection (a) to any center for the provision of readjustment counseling and related mental health services under section 1712A of title 38, United States Code, that the Secretary considers appropriate in order to meet the purpose described in that subsection. “(d) Inapplicability and Termination of Limitation on Duration of Employment.—Any limitation on the duration of employment of veterans under the program described in subsection (b) is hereby terminated and shall not apply to veterans employed under such program or under this section. “(e) Employment Status.—Veterans employed under subsection (a) shall be employed in career conditional status, which is the employment status in which veterans are employed under the program described in subsection (b).”

Study of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Vietnam Veterans

Pub. L. 106–419, title II, § 212, Nov. 1, 2000, 114 Stat. 1843, provided that: “(a) Study on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.—Not later than 10 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 1, 2000], the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall enter into a contract with an appropriate entity to carry out a study on post-traumatic stress disorder. “(b) Follow-Up Study.—The contract under subsection (a) shall provide for a follow-up study to the study conducted in accordance with section 102 of the Veterans Health Care Amendments of 1983 (Public Law 98–160) [set out as a note below]. Such follow-up study shall use the data base and sample of the previous study. “(c) Information To Be Included.—The study conducted pursuant to this section shall be designed to yield information on—“(1) the long-term course of post-traumatic stress disorder; “(2) any long-term medical consequences of post-traumatic stress disorder; “(3) whether particular subgroups of veterans are at greater risk of chronic or more severe problems with such disorder; and “(4) the services used by veterans who have post-traumatic stress disorder and the effect of those services on the course of the disorder. “(d) Report.—The Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report on the results of the study under this section. The report shall be submitted no later than October 1, 2004.”

Specialized Mental Health Services

Pub. L. 106–117, title I, § 116, Nov. 30, 1999, 113 Stat. 1559, as amended by Pub. L. 108–170, title I, § 108, Dec. 6, 2003, 117 Stat. 2046, provided that: “(a) Improvement to Specialized Mental Health Services.—The Secretary [of Veterans Affairs], in furtherance of the responsibilities of the Secretary under section 1706(b) of title 38, United States Code, shall carry out a program to expand and improve the provision of specialized mental health services to veterans. The Secretary shall establish the program in consultation with the Committee on Care of Severely Chronically Mentally Ill Veterans established pursuant to section 7321 of title 38, United States Code. “(b) Covered Programs.—For purposes of this section, the term ‘specialized mental health services’ includes programs relating to—“(1) the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder; and “(2) substance use disorders. “(c) Funding.—(1) In carrying out the program described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall identify, from funds available to the Department [of Veterans Affairs] for medical care, an amount of not less than $25,000,000 in each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006 to be available to carry out the program and to be allocated to facilities of the Department pursuant to subsection (d). “(2) In identifying available amounts pursuant to paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure that, after the allocation of those funds under subsection (d), the total expenditure for programs relating to (A) the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, and (B) substance use disorders is not less than $25,000,000 in excess of the baseline amount. “(3)(A) For purposes of paragraph (2), the baseline amount is the amount of the total expenditures on such programs for the most recent fiscal year for which final expenditure amounts are known, adjusted to reflect any subsequent increase in applicable costs to deliver such services in the Veterans Health Administration, as determined by the Committee on Care of Severely Chronically Mentally Ill Veterans. “(B) For purposes of this paragraph, in fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006, the fiscal year used to determine the baseline amount shall be fiscal year 2003. “(d) Allocation of Funds to Department Facilities.—(1) In each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006, the Secretary shall allocate funds identified pursuant to subsection (c)(1) to individual medical facilities of the Department as the Secretary determines appropriate based upon proposals submitted by those facilities for the use of those funds for improvements to specialized mental health services. “(2) In allocating funds to facilities in a fiscal year under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure that—“(A) not less than $10,000,000 is allocated by direct grants to programs that are identified by the Mental Health Strategic Health Care Group and the Committee on Care of Severely Chronically Mentally Ill Veterans; “(B) not less than $5,000,000 is allocated for programs on post-traumatic stress disorder; and “(C) not less than $5,000,000 is allocated for programs on substance use disorder. “(3) The Secretary shall provide that the funds to be allocated under this section during each of fiscal years 2004, 2005, and 2006 are funds for a special purpose program for which funds are not allocated through the Veterans Equitable Resource Allocation system. “(e) Report.—Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 30, 1999], the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report describing the implementation of this section. The Secretary shall include in the report information on the allocation of funds to facilities of the Department under the program and a description of the improvements made with those funds to specialized mental health services for veterans.”

Marriage and Family Counseling for Persian Gulf War Veterans

Pub. L. 102–405, title I, § 121, Oct. 9, 1992, 106 Stat. 1978, provided that: “(a) Requirement.—Subject to the availability of funds appropriated pursuant to the authorization in subsection (g), the Secretary shall conduct a program to furnish to the persons referred to in subsection (b) the marriage and family counseling services referred to in subsection (c). The authority to conduct the program shall expire on September 30, 1994. “(b) Persons Eligible for Counseling.—The persons eligible to receive marriage and family counseling services under the program are—“(1) veterans who were awarded a campaign medal for active-duty service during the Persian Gulf War and the spouses and children of such veterans; and “(2) veterans who are or were members of the reserve components who were called or ordered to active duty during the Persian Gulf War and the spouses and children of such members. “(c) Counseling Services.—Under the program, the Secretary may provide marriage and family counseling that the Secretary determines, based on an assessment by a mental-health professional employed by the Department and designated by the Secretary (or, in an area where no such professional is available, a mental-health professional designated by the Secretary and performing services under a contract or fee arrangement with the Secretary), is necessary for the amelioration of psychological, marital, or familial difficulties that result from the active duty service referred to in subsection (b)(1) or (2). “(d) Manner of Furnishing Services.—(1) Marriage and family counseling services shall be furnished under the program—“(A) by personnel of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are qualified to provide such counseling services; “(B) by appropriately certified marriage and family counselors employed by the Department; and “(C) by qualified mental health professionals pursuant to contracts with the Department, when Department facilities are not capable of furnishing economical medical services because of geographical inaccessibility or are not capable of furnishing the services required. “(2) The Secretary shall establish the qualifications required of personnel under subparagraphs (A) and (C) of paragraph (1) and shall prescribe the training, experience, and certification required of appropriately certified marriage and family counselors under subparagraph (B) of such paragraph. “(3) The Secretary may employ licensed or certified marriage and family counselors to provide counseling under paragraph (1)(B) and may classify the positions in which they are employed at levels determined appropriate by the Secretary, taking into consideration the training, experience, and licensure or certification required of such counselors. “(e) Contract Counseling Services.—(1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (4), a mental health professional referred to in subsection (d)(1)(C) may furnish marriage and family counseling services to a person under the program as follows:“(A) For a period of not more than 15 days beginning on the date of the commencement of the furnishing of such services to the person. “(B) For a 90-day period beginning on such date if—“(i) the mental health professional submits to the Secretary a treatment plan with respect to the person not later than 15 days after such date; and “(ii) the treatment plan and the assessment made under subsection (c) are approved by an appropriate mental health professional of the Department designated for that purpose by the Under Secretary for Health. “(C) For an additional 90-day period beginning on the date of the expiration of the 90-day period referred to in subparagraph (B) (or any subsequent 90-day period) if—“(i) not more than 30 days before the expiration of the 90-day period referred to in subparagraph (B) (or any subsequent 90-day period), the mental health professional submits to the Secretary a revised treatment plan containing a justification of the need of the person for additional counseling services; and “(ii) the plan is approved in accordance with the provisions of subparagraph (B)(ii). “(2)(A) A mental health professional referred to in paragraph (1) who assesses the need of any person for services for the purposes of subsection (c) may not furnish counseling services to that person. “(B) The Secretary may waive the prohibition referred to in subparagraph (A) for locations (as determined by the Secretary) in which the Secretary is unable to obtain the assessment referred to in that subparagraph from a mental health professional other than the mental health professional with whom the Secretary enters into contracts under subsection (d)(1)(C) for the furnishing of counseling services. “(3) The Secretary shall reimburse mental health professionals for the reasonable cost (as determined by the Secretary) of furnishing counseling services under paragraph (1). In the event of the disapproval of a treatment plan of a person submitted by a mental health professional under paragraph (1)(B)(i), the Secretary shall reimburse the mental health professional for the reasonable cost (as so determined) of furnishing counseling services to the person for the period beginning on the date of the commencement of such services and ending on the date of the disapproval. “(4) The Secretary may authorize the furnishing of counseling in an individual case for a period shorter than the 90-day period specified in subparagraph (B) or (C) of paragraph (1) and, upon further consideration, extend the shorter period to the full 90 days. “(5)(A) For the purposes of this subsection, the term ‘treatment plan’, with respect to a person entitled to counseling services under the program, must include—“(i) an assessment by the mental health professional submitting the plan of the counseling needs of the person described in the plan on the date of the submittal of the plan; and “(ii) a description of the counseling services to be furnished to the person by the mental health professional during the 90-day period covered by the plan, including the number of counseling sessions proposed as part of such services. “(B) The Secretary shall prescribe an appropriate form for the treatment plan. “(f) Cost Recovery.—For the purposes of section 1729 of title 38, United States Code, marriage and family counseling services furnished under the program shall be deemed to be care and services furnished by the Department under chapter 17 of such title, and the United States shall be entitled to recover or collect the reasonable cost of such services in accordance with that section. “(g) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1993 and 1994 to carry out this section. “(h) Report.—Not later than July 1, 1994, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the program conducted pursuant to this section. The report shall contain information regarding the persons furnished counseling services under the program, including—“(1) the number of such persons, stated as a total number and separately for each eligibility status referred to in subsection (b); “(2) the age and gender of such persons; “(3) the manner in which such persons were furnished such services under the program; and “(4) the number of counseling sessions furnished to such persons. “(i) Definitions.—For the purposes of this section, the terms ‘veteran’, ‘child’, ‘active duty’, ‘reserve component’, ‘spouse’, and ‘Persian Gulf War’ have the meanings given such terms in paragraphs 101(2), (4), (21), (27), (31), and (33) of section 101 of title 38, United States Code, respectively.”

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Program Planning

Pub. L. 102–405, title I, § 123, Oct. 9, 1992, 106 Stat. 1981, provided that: “(a) Plan.—The Secretary shall develop a plan—“(1) to ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder related to active duty are provided appropriate treatment and rehabilitative services for that condition in a timely manner; “(2) to expand and improve the services available for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder related to active duty; “(3) to eliminate waiting lists for inpatient treatment and other modes of treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder; “(4) to enhance outreach activities carried out to inform combat-area veterans of the availability of treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder; and “(5) to ensure, to the extent practicable, that there are Department post-traumatic stress disorder treatment units in locations that are readily accessible to veterans residing in rural areas of the United States. “(b) Considerations.—In developing the plan referred to in subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider—“(1) the numbers of veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder related to active duty, as indicated by relevant studies, scientific and clinical reports, and other pertinent information; “(2) the numbers of veterans who would likely seek post-traumatic stress disorder treatment from the Department if waiting times for treatment were eliminated and outreach activities to combat-area veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder were enhanced; “(3) the current and projected capacity of the Department to provide appropriate treatment and rehabilitative services for post-traumatic stress disorder; “(4) the level and geographic accessibility of inpatient and outpatient care available through the Department for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder across the United States; “(5) the desirability of providing that inpatient and outpatient post-traumatic stress disorder care be furnished in facilities of the Department that are physically independent of general psychiatric wards of the medical facilities of the Department; “(6) the treatment needs of veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder who are women, of such veterans who are ethnic minorities (including Native Americans, Native Hawaiians, Asian-Pacific Islanders, and Native Alaskans), and of such veterans who suffer from substance abuse problems in addition to post-traumatic stress disorder; and “(7) the recommendations of the Special Committee on Post-Traumatic-Stress Disorder with respect to (A) specialized inpatient and outpatient programs of the Department for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, and (B) with respect to the establishment of educational programs that are designed for each of the various levels of education, training, and experience of the various mental health professionals involved in the treatment of veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. “(c) Report.—Not later than six months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 9, 1992], the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report on the plan developed pursuant to subsection (a). The report shall include specific information relating to the consideration given to the matters described in subsection (b). “(d) Definitions.—For the purposes of this section:“(1) The term ‘active duty’ has the meaning given that term in section 101(21) of title 38, United States Code. “(2) The term ‘veteran’ has the meaning given that term in section 101(2) of such title. “(3) The term ‘combat-area veteran’ means a veteran who served on active duty in an area at a time during which hostilities (as defined in [former] section 1712A(a)(2)(B) of such title) occurred in such area.”

Updates of Reports on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Pub. L. 102–405, title I, § 122(b), Oct. 9, 1992, 106 Stat. 1981, directed Special Committee on Post-Traumatic-Stress Disorder, not later than Oct. 1, 1992, and Oct. 1, 1993, to concurrently submit to Secretary and Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of Senate and House of Representatives a report containing information updating the reports submitted to the Secretary under section 110(e) of the Veterans’ Health Care Act of 1984, together with any additional information the Special Committee considers appropriate regarding the overall efforts of the Department of Veterans Affairs to meet the needs of veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and other psychological problems in readjusting to civilian life, and directed Secretary, not later than 90 days after receiving each of the reports to submit to the committees any comments concerning the report that the Secretary considered appropriate. Similar provisions were contained in Pub. L. 101–237, title II, § 201(e), Dec. 18, 1989, 103 Stat. 2066, as amended by Pub. L. 101–366, title II, § 204, Aug. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 439.

Authorization for Relocation of Certain Facilities

Pub. L. 100–687, div. B, title XV, § 1501(b), Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4132, related to relocation of 17 Veterans’ Administration Readjustment Counseling Service Vet Centers from their locations away from general Veterans’ Administration health-care facilities to other such locations.

Prohibition of Delegation of Duties

Pub. L. 100–322, title I, § 107(f), May 20, 1988, 102 Stat. 496, as amended by Pub. L. 100–527, § 10(4), Oct. 25, 1988, 102 Stat. 2641; Pub. L. 102–40, § 2(b), May 7, 1991, 105 Stat. 187; Pub. L. 102–83, § 5(c)(2), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 406, provided that: “The Chief Medical Director [now Under Secretary for Health] of the Department of Veterans Affairs may not delegate the function of making recommendations under [former] section 1712A(g)(3)(A) of title 38, United States Code, as amended by subsection (c).”

Post-Traumatic-Stress Disorder; Diagnosis and Treatment; Education and Training of Health-Care Personnel; Coordination With Readjustment Counseling; Special Committee; National Center; Compilation and Publication of Research Results; Reports to Congressional Committees