Committee Approves Bucco Bill to Assist Veterans with PTSD or Brain Injury

Legislation sponsored by Senator Anthony M. Bucco that would make it easier for veterans to get treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder or total brain injury was approved today by the Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Bucco’s bill, S-2821, requires the Adjutant General of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA) to develop a program to help veterans access evaluation and treatment for PTSD or total brain injury diagnosis related to military service.

“Statistics show that almost two of every 10 veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress, and we want to ensure they receive effective treatment,” said Bucco (R-25). “It is important that our society care for the service members who put their lives on the line for our freedoms. The effects of trauma can be treated, but it is important to get the support necessary. Implementing this bill will help reduce some of the wait time and ease the burden.”

Under the bill, the program would include offering support and guidance, transportation, and assistance filing disability compensation claims and other paperwork.