The bill amends the Michigan Military Act by adding a new section, Sec. 321, which mandates the development of a transition bridge program for service members and veterans. This program will focus on mental health, well-being, and suicide prevention, and will be overseen by the manager of the office of mental health and suicide prevention within the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. The department is authorized to collaborate with nonprofit organizations and government agencies to create a holistic approach to mental health support. The program is required to be offered at least four times a year and is designed to be accessible to eligible members within specific timeframes surrounding their separation from military service.

The program will provide information on various mental health issues, treatment resources, and strategies for transitioning to civilian life. It will also ensure that any data collected remains confidential and not subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. The bill defines key terms such as "eligible member," "department," and "program," and stipulates that the enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of House Bill No. 5270.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 32.501, 32.851