If enacted, this bill would introduce a new section, 41-610.03, to title 41, chapter 3, article 7 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, establishing the Mental Health Services for Veterans Grant Program. This program aims to support community mental health initiatives that provide services and treatment specifically for veterans with mental illness. The Arizona Department of Veterans' Services (ADVS) would be responsible for administering the program, setting eligibility criteria for grant applicants, determining acceptable uses of grant funds, and establishing reporting requirements for recipients. Additionally, the program would award funds on a competitive basis to private entities that offer relevant services.

The bill also appropriates $2,000,000 from the state general fund for each of the fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the newly established grant program. This appropriation is exempt from lapsing provisions, ensuring that the funds remain available for the intended purpose across the specified fiscal years. Overall, the bill aims to enhance mental health support for veterans through structured funding and program administration.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-610.03
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-610.03