Crist justice plan for veterans becomes law
August 10, 2020 - President Trump has signed the Veteran Treatment Court Coordination Act, a measure cosponsored by Rep. Charlie Crist, D-St. Petersburg. The new law means that thousands of veterans across the country facing the criminal justice system will have an alternative to jail time, ensuring they get the treatment they need, Crist said in a news release. Many veterans experience mental health issues, substance abuse, and homelessness, which can often land them in the criminal justice system, the news release said. Th new law establishes a program within the Office of Justice Programs at Department of Justice, in coordination with the VA, to provide grants, training, and technical assistance to help state, local, and tribal governments develop and maintain veteran treatment courts.