Skip to main content

TribBlog: A Timely Announcement

Gov. Perry made a timely announcement today: He's proposing initiatives to improve mental health programs for veterans.

by Emily Ramshaw

Gov. Perry made a timely announcement today: He's proposing initiatives to improve mental health programs for veterans.

Yes, Veteran's Day is this week (Wednesday, FYI). But his goal -- to secure an additional $5 million to supplement the $1.2 million already set aside for military mental health -- has heightened significance the week after an army psychiatrist went on a shooting rampage at Fort Hood.

The money would expand mental health services for veterans provided by the Department of State Health Services -- and also cater to their families. It would also establish a chain of veteran-to-veteran support groups statewide.

The governor's office says the initiative was in the works long before the Fort Hood shooting, and isn't a response to it.

Texas Tribune donors or members may be quoted or mentioned in our stories, or may be the subject of them. For a complete list of contributors, click here.

Quality journalism doesn't come free

Perhaps it goes without saying — but producing quality journalism isn't cheap. At a time when newsroom resources and revenue across the country are declining, The Texas Tribune remains committed to sustaining our mission: creating a more engaged and informed Texas with every story we cover, every event we convene and every newsletter we send. As a nonprofit newsroom, we rely on members to help keep our stories free and our events open to the public. Do you value our journalism? Show us with your support.

Yes, I'll donate today

Information about the authors

Emily Ramshaw’s staff photo