How HR 4635 changes current law

Compared against current U.S. Code AI-generated reading aid — verify against the official bill.

The bill adds specific provisions to enhance peer support counseling for women veterans within the existing framework of the suicide prevention program.

• 38 U.S.C. § 1720F(j)

  (4)(A) As part of the counseling program under this subsection, the Secretary shall emphasize appointing peer support counselors for women veterans. To the degree practicable, the Secretary shall seek to recruit women peer support counselors with expertise in-- (i) female gender-specific issues and services; (ii) the provision of information about services and benefits provided under laws administered by the Secretary; or (iii) employment mentoring. (B) To the degree practicable, the Secretary shall emphasize facilitating peer support counseling for women veterans who are eligible for counseling and services under section 1720D of this title, have post-traumatic stress disorder or suffer from another mental health condition, are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, or are otherwise at increased risk of suicide, as determined by the Secretary. (C) The Secretary shall conduct outreach to inform women veterans about the program and the assistance available under this paragraph. (D) In carrying out this paragraph, the Secretary shall coordinate with such community organizations, State and local governments, institutions of higher education, chambers of commerce, local business organizations, organizations that provide legal assistance, and other organizations as the Secretary considers appropriate. (E) In carrying out this paragraph, the Secretary shall provide adequate training for peer support counselors, including training carried out under the national program of training required by section 304(c) of the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010 (38 U.S.C. 1712A note).

  This addition emphasizes the appointment and training of peer support counselors specifically for women veterans, enhancing support for this demographic.