Solid Start Act of 2022
Oct 17, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 2232
Became law: Oct 17, 2022
Oct 17, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 2232
Became law: Oct 17, 2022
Summary
Makes the Department of Veterans Affairs' Solid Start program a permanent law, which helps new veterans learn about and use their benefits.
What problem does this solve?
Many veterans struggle to find and use their benefits after leaving the military, especially during the difficult first year. This law requires the VA to proactively call every new veteran three times to connect them with the help and benefits they have earned.
What does this law do?
Establishes the Solid Start program in law
Officially creates the Solid Start program, making it a permanent requirement for the Department of Veterans Affairs to help newly separated veterans.
Requires proactive contact with veterans
Mandates that the VA call each veteran three times within their first year after leaving the Armed Forces, regardless of their type of separation.
Prioritizes outreach to veterans with mental health needs
Requires the VA to give priority to contacting veterans who have used mental health resources before their separation from the military.
Provides tailored information for women veterans
Ensures that women veterans receive information that is specific to their unique health care and benefit needs.
Collects contact information during military transition
Requires the VA and Department of Defense to collect up-to-date contact information from all service members as they leave the military.
Measures program effectiveness
Requires the VA to gather and study data to see how well the Solid Start program is working.
Who does this affect?
- Veterans recently separated from the Armed Forces
- Women veterans
- Department of Veterans Affairs staff
What is the real world impact?
•
Provides proactive support to new veterans
Ensures veterans transitioning to civilian life are aware of their benefits. By requiring the VA to make contact, the law helps prevent veterans from falling through the cracks during a challenging period.
•
Focuses on at-risk individuals
Prioritizes outreach to veterans who used mental health services before leaving the military. This helps connect those who may be most in need with critical resources right away.
•
Formalizes a successful program
Turns an existing VA program into a permanent one required by law. This ensures the program will continue to operate consistently and receive support, rather than being a temporary initiative.
When does this start?
This law went into effect on October 17, 2022.