The Service Dogs Assisting Veterans (SAVES) Act, introduced as S.2067 during the 118th Congress, is a bipartisan bill aimed at improving the quality of life for veterans through the provision of service dogs. Sponsored by Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) alongside Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM), the legislation proposes to establish a grant program under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The key provision of the act is to fund nonprofit organizations that train and provide service dogs to veterans suffering from disabilities, including those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and mobility impairments[1].
Core Elements of the SAVES Act:
- Grant
Program Creation: The bill directs the VA to award competitive grants
to accredited nonprofits that specialize in training service dogs. These
grants are intended to fund programs that pair service dogs with veterans
in need. The grants can be used for various aspects of these programs,
such as training the dogs, aftercare, and public outreach to ensure
veterans are aware of the service[2].
- Eligibility
and Nonprofit Requirements: Nonprofits must meet specific criteria to
receive funding, including accreditation from recognized bodies like
Assistance Dogs International or a similarly reputable organization. They
are required to present a comprehensive plan on how they will provide
training to veterans, the types of service dogs they offer, and their
ability to offer ongoing support for veterans paired with service dogs.
- Targeting
Veterans in Need: The Act focuses on ensuring that veterans suffering
from mental and physical impairments, such as PTSD, TBI, or physical
disabilities, can access service dogs that improve their quality of life.
One notable inclusion is the requirement for nonprofits to ensure equal
access to women veterans, addressing a need for inclusivity in veteran
care.
- Funding
and Duration: The SAVES Act authorizes appropriations of $10 million
annually from 2024 through 2028 to implement this program. The funds will
be used to set up the grants, monitor the use of funds, and evaluate the
effectiveness of the service dogs in improving veterans' health.
Legislative Context:
The bill was introduced in the Senate in June 2023 and
referred to the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Hearings were held in
July 2023, demonstrating a bipartisan commitment to advancing the legislation.
However, as of the latest action, the bill remains in the committee stage, and
it has not yet passed into law.
Policy Implications:
The SAVES Act represents a significant policy step toward
addressing the mental health crisis among veterans, especially those who
struggle with PTSD and other service-related conditions. Studies have shown
that service dogs can provide emotional support, mitigate symptoms of anxiety
and depression, and assist with physical tasks, making them a valuable resource
for veterans who might otherwise have limited access to such services. The
inclusion of funding for aftercare and training ensures that both the veterans
and the service dogs are supported long-term, potentially reducing the burden
on the VA's healthcare system.
From a financial standpoint, the $10 million annual
allocation is a relatively modest investment when compared to the broader VA
budget. The long-term benefits, however, could be substantial, especially if
service dogs help to reduce hospitalizations and medical interventions for
veterans with complex health needs.
The SAVES Act seeks to fill a gap in veteran care by
expanding access to trained service dogs through a grant program. It highlights
a growing recognition of alternative therapeutic approaches, which are crucial
in supporting the nation's veterans. This legislation, if passed, would have a
far-reaching impact on the veteran community, offering improved well-being and
independence for those who have sacrificed much in service to their country.
