House passes counseling program for families of veterans

The Utah House on the floor passed first substitute House Bill 407 on a unanimous 63–0 vote, creating a counseling program for families of Utah National Guard members and reservists.

Representative Tim Cosgrove, the bill sponsor, told colleagues the substitute reduced the bill’s fiscal note and explained the program will be developed by the Department of Human Services working with military partners. "House bill 407 creates a counseling program through the Department of Human Services that uses the in-house expertise from the department to develop a program to help families of veterans reintegrate," Cosgrove said. He thanked Colonel Scott Olsen of the Utah National Guard, Larry Daniels of the U.S. Air Force Reserves (ret.), Department staff and the House Health and Human Services Standing Committee for their work on the legislation.

The House also approved Amendment 1 under Representative Cosgrove’s name, which changes references in the bill from the Department of Health to the Department of Human Services to better align program responsibilities. Cosgrove said the amendment came out of committee discussion and "makes a better fit." After substitution and amendment, floor debate was limited, summation waived, and representatives voted; the clerk announced: "First substitute House Bill 407, having received 63 yes votes, 0 no votes, passes this body and will be referred to the Senate for further consideration."

Cosgrove described the policy intent as helping families cope with reintegration challenges ranging from post-traumatic stress to financial strain. "When you are a reservist on active status, you and your family qualify for federal care. Once the service member is separated from active duty, demobilized, the family is no longer covered and has to seek service through other means," he said, arguing the state program will help bridge that gap.

The bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration.