The proposed bill, titled the Veterans Suicide Mortality Review and Prevention Act of 2026, aims to establish a veterans suicide mortality review and prevention council within the executive office of veterans services in Massachusetts. The council will consist of 15 members appointed by the governor, including representatives from veteran service organizations, mental health clinicians, public health experts, law enforcement, and family members of veterans lost to suicide. The council's responsibilities will include reviewing veteran and active-duty military suicide deaths, identifying trends and risk factors, recommending prevention strategies, and publishing an annual report with findings and recommendations.
Additionally, the bill mandates that the executive office of veterans services provide necessary support to the council, which may also collaborate with outside experts and academic institutions. The council is required to submit a comprehensive report annually by December 31, detailing statistics on veteran suicide deaths, identified gaps, and recommendations for prevention programs and funding. The council will have the authority to accept state appropriations, federal grants, and private donations to support its operations, with a focus on staffing, research, and outreach efforts.