SERVICE Act of 2025

This bill would set up a five-year pilot program to help police and sheriff’s departments build “veterans response teams.” The Attorney General could give grants to states, local governments, and Tribal governments to create and run these teams inside law enforcement. Teams would train officers about veteran mental health needs (like PTSD, brain injury, depression, and anxiety), respond around the clock to calls involving veterans in crisis, and work closely with the VA, veterans courts, jails, and local groups so veterans get services faster. Veteran officers could wear a small pin showing their branch of service, and teams could use VA tools to identify and support veterans.

The program would end five years after it becomes law. The Justice Department would report on how many applied, how many grants were awarded, and the average amounts. If funding is available, it would use grant funds under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act for fiscal years 2026–2030.

• Who is affected: Veterans in crisis; local, state, and Tribal law enforcement; community and VA partners.
• What changes: New veteran-focused response teams; officer training; 24/7 crisis response; better links to VA and courts; ongoing follow-up with veterans.
• When: Pilot runs for five years after enactment; funding, if available, covers fiscal years 2026–2030.