One month has passed since the end of the 2024 legislative session, and of the 46 bills truly agreed and passed by the General Assembly. Gov. Mike Parson will give his stamp of approval to some of the following pieces of legislation, which are set to take full effect on Aug. 28.
An effort to reduce veteran suicides in Missouri has reached the governor’s desk. The legislature approved two bills containing a comprehensive plan to address the issue. If signed by Gov. Mike Parson, the legislation will require the Missouri Veterans Commission to review and implement recommendations from the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2019. The commission must also collaborate with the Department of Mental Health and report its efforts annually to the Department of Public Safety and the General Assembly. The goal is to ensure that data on veteran suicides is effectively utilized to improve outreach and treatment. The commission has already started implementing some of the bill's requirements. The proposal reached the governor’s desk as a standalone bill in House Bill 1495, and as part of Senate Bill 912, which also addresses a number of other various aspects related to military affairs and veterans' services:
These provisions aim to improve support for veterans, their families and active-duty military personnel across various aspects such as mental health, education, taxation and recognition of service.
In the Show Me State, we are deeply committed to the well-being of our veterans who have selflessly protected our nation, and wish to honor and recognize the sacrifices they have made. This bill passed with support from both sides of the aisle, and goes to show our unwavering commitment to honoring the bravery and sacrifice of our veterans who served honorably during pivotal periods in our nation's history.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns or suggestions you might have. As your representative, I am here to assist you however I can. I can be reached by email at Chris.Dinkins@house.mo.gov or by phone at (573) 751-2112. Please do not contact me via social media. These messages are easy to overlook and may not be responded to in a timely manner.
CHRIS DINKINS represents Missouri’s 144th House District. The district includes Bollinger, Iron, Madison, Reynolds, Shannon, Washington and Wayne counties.