Arizona Rushes New Law to Boost Mental Health Support for Veterans Battling PTSD

By Jonathan Eberle |

Arizona has enacted new legislation aimed at enhancing emergency mental health support for veterans battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Governor Katie Hobbs recently signed SB 1163, which empowers U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) peace officers to provide direct assistance to veterans in crisis.

Sponsored by David Gowan, the Chairman of the Senate Military Affairs and Border Security Committee, this law permits VA peace officers to detain veterans if they pose a potential threat to themselves or others due to mental health issues. It also allows police officers to request emergency admission evaluations, a necessary step before psychiatric hospitalization.

Gowan expressed that supporting veterans is a fundamental responsibility. He stated that the law aims to expedite access to emergency services, reducing delays often caused by civilian emergency responders or complicated legal requirements.

The bill gained significant bipartisan support in both the Arizona Senate and House of Representatives, underscoring a shared commitment to improving mental health care for veterans. Gowan acknowledged Cpl. Charles Stalter, a veterans advocate, for highlighting the urgent need for legislative action.

Data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs indicates that PTSD impacts 11% to 20% of veterans who served in recent conflicts, with an alarming average of 17 veteran suicides reported daily in 2021.

Previously, VA peace officers lacked the legal authority to initiate emergency mental health holds, even in clear crisis situations. SB 1163 addresses this gap, aligning Arizona with other states that equip VA officers to act decisively in mental health emergencies on VA grounds.

The immediate effectiveness of the law, activated upon the Governor’s signature, reflects the pressing mental health needs of the veteran community. Gowan noted, “This commonsense legislation ensures veterans won’t have to wait for help. It will save lives.”

The Arizona Department of Health Services and the Department of Veterans’ Services will aid in the law’s implementation and coordination with VA facilities across the state.

Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.