Veterans Service Officer shares information and education during reappointment
During the resolution approval for Anthony "Tony" Lee's reappointment as the Mesa County Veterans Service Officer (VSO), he shared information about the important work his team is doing to support veterans. He highlighted a crucial program focused on communicating accurate information about Red Flag Laws to veterans to remove the potential barrier to getting the support they need.
Misinformation about Red Flag Laws can keep veterans from seeking mental health services. The Department of Veterans Affairs and your local law enforcement agencies encourage veterans to seek mental health help when needed.
Here are some truths about Red Flag Laws:
- There is no "list" of everyone with a mental illness.
- If you get a mental health diagnosis, you do not lose your firearms or right to own them.
- Mental illness is a protected condition just like any other health information.
- For the Red Flag Law, there needs to be a petition to the court with facts and evidence as to why an individual is a "significant" risk to themselves or others by owning or possessing their firearms.
Dismantling misinformation around red flags laws is only one effort of the VSO office to reach veterans and their families with transformative resources. The VSO role entails offering expert guidance, valuable assistance, and dedicated advocacy on matters related to veterans administration claims, supportive services, and facilitating appropriate community referrals. These services are pivotal in ensuring veterans and their families receive the necessary support tailored to their needs.
Mesa County Veteran Services served over six times as many veterans in 2023 compared to 2020 — Mesa County appreciates Tony Lee and his team's unwavering dedication to our veterans.
Click here to learn more about Mesa County Veteran Services.
