Pubdate: Sun, 02 Dec 2012
Source: Dallas Morning News (TX)
Copyright: 2012 The Dallas Morning News, Inc.
Contact: http://www.dallasnews.com/cgi-bin/lettertoed.cgi
Website: http://www.dallasnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/117
Author: Mathew Stiner

VETERANS NEED HELP

Texas legislators should follow the recommendations of the Texas 
Coordinating Council for Veterans Services and significantly expand 
Veterans Treatment Courts throughout the state.

Texas has already saved $2 billion through aggressive criminal 
justice reform, including the expansion of drug courts. Now is the 
time to further these cost-effective programs while coming to the aid 
of the men and women who have sacrificed for our country.

Veterans Treatment Courts operate similar to drug courts, but are 
reserved for veterans suffering from substance abuse, mental illness 
or trauma. They actually save money because in most cases the VA 
covers the treatment.

While the vast majority of veterans are strengthened by their 
service, we know that many struggle to re-engage with life at home. 
With thousands of troops still waiting to return, legislators must 
take action and implement Veterans Treatment Courts throughout the state.

Mathew Stiner, Washington, D.C.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom