The proposed bill establishes Chapter 58 of Title 22 in the Code of Alabama 1975, which requires the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) to work in conjunction with the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA) to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses the behavioral health needs of Alabama veterans. This plan will focus on enhancing mental health services for veterans, particularly those dealing with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, and will include funding for targeted programs. A Veterans Mental Health Steering Committee will be formed, comprising stakeholders such as commissioners from ADMH and ADVA, veterans service organization representatives, and mental health providers. This committee is responsible for assessing the current state of veterans' mental health and substance use and is tasked with delivering the comprehensive plan by January 1, 2025.

The bill also allows ADMH to initiate pilot projects that utilize evidence-based services to meet veterans' behavioral health needs, with funding allocated through a transparent request for proposal process. These projects may encompass therapies for PTSD, TBI screenings, and integrated care models. The comprehensive plan must be presented to the Veterans and Military Affairs Committees by April 1, 2025, and submitted to the Governor for approval by June 30, 2025. The bill emphasizes that the implementation of these initiatives is contingent upon new funds appropriated by the Legislature, ensuring that existing resources are not reallocated. It also mandates compliance with federal ethics laws and establishes data reporting standards for the pilot projects. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2024, and does not include any deletions from current law, but introduces new provisions to bolster support for veterans' mental health in Alabama.