Senate Bill 396 aims to enhance the Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program by allocating additional funding and increasing staffing within the Department of Veterans Affairs. Specifically, the bill provides an appropriation of $512,900 for the fiscal year 2025-26 and $602,800 for the fiscal year 2026-27. This funding will support the addition of seven full-time equivalent (FTE) positions to improve outreach, treatment, and support services for veterans dealing with mental health conditions or substance use disorders.

The bill modifies the existing budget allocations under section 20.485 (2) (qs) of the state statutes, increasing the authorized funding for the program in the specified fiscal years. The changes are intended to bolster the capacity of the Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program, ensuring that veterans receive the necessary assistance and resources. The act is set to take effect the day after its publication or on the second day after the publication of the 2025 biennial budget act, whichever occurs later.