A bill has been introduced seeking to improve government resources and programs for veterans struggling with mental health issues.

Bill 377-33, also known as the “Paul Moore Avoidance for Veterans Enduring Distress Act,” or the “Paul Moore SAVED Act,” was introduced by Senator Frank Aguon. The bill was named after Sgt. Moore, who lost his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Providing access

According to the bill, Guam’s veterans have not been provided with the adequate access to resources and programs needed to combat mental illness. Moreover, many local veterans “face a large obstacle" trying to navigate the complex network of resources and programs available to them both locally and nationally.

More significantly, the bill noted there is a dearth in programs for veterans facing mental illness.

Another issue faced by veterans that the bill raised was the lack of legal avenues for veterans who are employed by the government and who are seeking assistance in combating their mental illnesses. The bill recommends the development of policy to improve existing government programs for veterans on suicide prevention in collaboration with the Guam Office of Veterans Affairs and non-profit mental health organizations.

Employee protection

The bill also includes a provision promoting the development of a “mentally ill employee protection policy” through the collaboration of the directors of the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center, Guam Veterans Affairs Office, and the Department of Administration. According to the measure, the policy shall provide for an official channel that may be utilized by any employee struggling with mental illness in seeking government assistance for treatment.

The bill also has a provision tasking VAO to survey existing related programs and services and to publish a website that shall act as a centralized source with all information regarding mental health care services available for veterans.