U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) collaborated with Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) to introduce the bipartisan Service Dogs Assisting Veterans (SAVES) Act on June 29, 2023. The proposed legislation aims to create a grant program for nonprofit organizations, enabling them to implement programs that offer service dogs to eligible veterans, according to a press release by Heinrich.
“I’m proud to join this bipartisan legislation to make sure our nation’s heroes can access the companionship and therapeutic support of service dogs,” Heinrich said.
The SAVES Act further builds upon the success of the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (PAWS) for Veterans Therapy Act, which Heinrich previously championed and helped pass into law. The proposed requirements for nonprofit organizations include submitting applications to the Secretary detailing the provided training for eligible veterans and service dogs, aftercare services for both, a marketing campaign to publicize service dog availability and the adherence to humane standards for animals. Additionally, organizations would need to be accredited by Assistance Dogs International or a similarly recognized accreditation entity according to the release.
“Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices for our nation, and we need to do everything in our power to make sure they have the support they need and have earned,” Heinrich continued.
Tillis also chimed in on the act.
“Long after the fighting on the battlefield ends, too many of the courageous servicemembers come home and continue to battle against enemies that many consider just as insidious as those with guns, grenades, and rockets. That is why in 2021, I introduced the PAWS Act that created a pilot program to provide canine training to eligible veterans, but it is clear we must continue to build on that effort to ensure this program is expanded to veterans in need,” said Tillis. “The SAVES Act will allow more veterans who are struggling with the invisible wounds of war to receive service dogs that could ultimately save their lives. We must repay the debt to the men and women who served our country, I hope congress quickly passes this legislation to provide them with his important resource.”
Blumenthal emphasized how the grants could impact veterans.
“Service dogs offer invaluable support and comfort to our veterans. When our heroes struggle with PTSD and other service-related injuries during their adjustment to life at home, canine companions are right by their side,” said Blumenthal. “These grants for nonprofits will provide veterans with the resources they need to prioritize their health and wellbeing. I’m proud to join Senator Tillis in this bipartisan effort.”
Cramer shared how he had seen the impact of service dogs.
“From mobility to mental health, I’ve seen firsthand the meaningful change service dogs can have for veterans,” said Cramer. “We should build on the success they have had by making more well-trained service dogs available to veterans who need them.”