The Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Bill was signed by the President on Nov 5, 2007 and became law. The bill can be read in its entirety here: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h110-327&show-changes=0

The bill is targeted at the VA medical system. It mandates mental health screenings, staff education, designation of suicide prevention counselors, a peer support counseling program and research. The bill also directs that outreach and education can be conducted for Veterans and Families.

Comment: An important part of the bill is staff education. If VA employees are given mental health training they would be better able to identify suicidal ideation or combat stress injuries. What about staffing? Will these new requirements be assigned as collateral duties or will there be an increase in staffing levels?