Governor Stitt Celebrates Pro-Veteran Law With Ceremonial Bill Signing

Governor Kevin Stitt held a ceremonial bill signing at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock in Lawton, OK for legislation that will increase funding for resources for veterans and their families, leading to better access to care for Oklahomans across the state.

“While we owe our veterans a debt that can never be repaid, it is our duty to give back to those who have given so much to us,” said Governor Stitt. “I am so thankful for the wonderful work being done through the Cohen Veteran Network and am glad this new law will provide better care for veterans and their families across the state.”

The governor was joined by First Lady Sarah Stitt, Secretary of Military and Veteran Affairs John Nash, Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Commissioner Carrie Slatton-Hodges, Cohen Veterans Network President and CEO Dr. Anthony Hassan and Mayor of Lawton Stan Booker, who have all played an integral role in supporting veterans in Oklahoma.

“This legislation continues to demonstrate that Oklahoma leads the nation in its commitment to our veterans,” said Sec. Nash. “Veterans in Oklahoma deserve our very best efforts to support them as they meet the oftentimes harsh demands of service, including the various mental health challenges. The support provided by this bill helps expand access to the important services veterans in Oklahoma need most.”

Prior to the ceremonial bill signing, the governor and the first lady toured the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic with CVN President and CEO Dr. Anthony Hassan.

“We are honored to see the governor and the state make this kind of commitment to veterans, their families, and mental health. Certainly, the need is great for mental health services here and throughout the country, and this bill will allow for more critical care across the state of Oklahoma,” said CVN President and CEO Dr. Anthony Hassan. “It is significant that the governor has signed this bill today at our Cohen Clinic in Lawton. We are very proud of the work we are doing here to care for veterans, service members, and their families and look forward to continuing to serve.”

The ceremonial bill signing was held for SB 1048. This is the spending limits bill for the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Section 5 of the bill includes a specific line item to increase services for veterans and their families.