An estimated 107,400 veterans are serving time in state or federal prison, many of whom may carry wounds that no one can see. Combat exposure-associated mental and physical consequences including traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and mood disorders, are unfortunately directly linked to a greater likelihood of criminal justice involvement among veterans. Currently, by law, the VA cannot provide hospital or outpatient care to incarcerated veterans because penal institutions are legally obligated to furnish inmate healthcare. Bipartisan legislation aims to break that cycle.

The Get Justice-Involved Veterans Behavioral Assistance and Care for Key Health Outcomes to Maintain Empowerment (BACK HOME) Act, was introduced by Senators Angus King (ME) and Pete Ricketts (NE), along with Representatives Herb Conaway (NJ) and Morgan Luttrell (TX). The bill, S. 4162 and H.R. 8044, would create a VA pilot program to furnish mental health services to incarcerated veterans, prioritizing those with service-connected TBI, PTSD, or military sexual trauma. It would also ensure automatic resumption of disability compensation payments upon a veteran’s release from incarceration.

“The Get Justice-Involved Veterans BACK HOME Act is about closing a dangerous gap in care by ensuring that justice-involved veterans can still access the mental health services they need to heal, rebuild, and successfully reenter their communities,” said Senator King. Congressman Conaway, a physician himself, added: “The Get Justice-Involved Veterans BACK HOME Act is about closing a dangerous gap in care by ensuring that justice-involved veterans can still access the mental health services they need to heal, rebuild, and successfully reenter their communities.”

The legislation is supported by the American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, the American Psychological Association, and the American Psychiatric Association.  Unfortunately, there has been no action on either the Senate or House BACK HOME Acts since their respective  introductions on March 23, 2026, and March 24, 2026.