Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced a bill
she authored, which requires veterans organizations to provide assistance to
veterans who experienced military sexual trauma (MST) during their active
military service, passed the Assembly today (A.10068).
“Our
veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and the very least we can do
is provide them with the assistance they need after returning home from war,”
Assemblywoman Russell said. “MST is very serious and often underreported. This
legislation would help veterans deal with the burden of MST recovery and would help
them get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”
This
legislation would require organizations that provide services to veterans under
the Social Services Law to provide assistance and benefits to those who have
experienced MST while actively serving.
MST is
defined by the Department of Veterans Affairs as sexual assault or sexual
harassment that occurred while veterans were serving in the military – this can
include any sexual activity in which a man or woman is involved against his or
her will.[1] In
2010, more than 3,100 military sexual assaults were reported; however, this
number comprises less than 14 percent of actual instances of military sexual
assault, according to the Department of Defense.[2] In
the same year, the Department of Veterans Affairs medical staff treated more
than 68,000 veterans who reported some sexual trauma.[3]
“As chair
of the Women Veterans Subcommittee and a member of the Veterans’ Affairs
Committee, I am committed to doing all that is possible to protect and honor
the men and women who have bravely fought for our freedom,” Assemblywoman
Russell said. “I will continue fighting to make sure our veterans receive the
help they need in any post-military service health problems they are facing.”
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