Veterans Mental Health Crisis Referral Enhancement Act of 2025

This legislation directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a three-year pilot program , beginning within 180 days of enactment, to refer veterans experiencing mental health crises to approved non-Department mental health care providers. This program will operate in at least three geographic locations , with Vet Centers and VA medical facilities facilitating these crucial referrals. The pilot program requires the development of a referral system designed to connect veterans with care within one week, alongside criteria for approving external providers. The Department must also hire necessary staff and provide training to employees involved in the referral process to ensure smooth operation. The Secretary is mandated to submit annual reports to Congress detailing program outcomes, including the number of veterans referred, average wait times, and veteran satisfaction. A final report will evaluate the program's overall effectiveness and recommend potential expansion or modifications. For its implementation, $3,000,000 is authorized for appropriation for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2027.