S.Res.272 - Expressing support for the designation of the second Saturday in June as Veterans Get Outside Day. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Resolution 272 designates the second Saturday in June as "Veterans Get Outside Day." It encourages the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Forest Service, and the Department of the Interior to coordinate in promoting this day alongside National Get Outdoors Day. The resolution aims to address mental health challenges faced by veterans, including post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, depression, and anxiety.
The resolution highlights the therapeutic benefits of exposure to nature and the outdoors. It cites studies indicating that increased access to green space can lower suicide risk and improve overall mood.
By promoting outdoor activities, the resolution seeks to provide additional support for the veteran community's mental health needs.
Expected Effects
The resolution will likely increase awareness of the mental health challenges faced by veterans. It will also encourage participation in outdoor activities as a therapeutic intervention.
Federal agencies may allocate resources to promote Veterans Get Outside Day. This could lead to increased collaboration between the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Forest Service, and the Department of the Interior.
Ultimately, the goal is to improve mental health outcomes for veterans by connecting them with nature.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of veterans' mental health issues.
- Promotion of outdoor activities as a therapeutic tool.
- Potential for improved mental health outcomes for veterans.
- Encouragement of inter-agency cooperation to support veterans.
- Alignment with existing efforts to connect veterans with nature.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for limited impact without significant resource allocation.
- Possible lack of participation from veterans due to accessibility or personal preferences.
- Risk of oversimplifying complex mental health issues.
- Dependence on voluntary participation and agency cooperation.
- Limited direct economic or infrastructural impact.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the general welfare clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to improve the mental health and well-being of veterans. While the Constitution does not explicitly address mental health initiatives, promoting the general welfare is a stated goal in the preamble.
Furthermore, Congress's power to support the military and veterans is implied through its enumerated powers to raise and support armies (Article I, Section 8). Supporting veterans' mental health can be seen as a necessary component of caring for those who have served in the armed forces.
The resolution does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or liberties.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).