Supporting the designation of September 22 as "National Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day" and recognizing the Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Flag.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 737
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Armed Forces and National Security
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-09-18: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-07T21:02:40Z
AI-Generated Summary
Summary of H. Res. 737
Purpose
This resolution aims to raise awareness about suicide among military members and veterans by designating September 22 as "National Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day." It also recognizes the Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Flag (SAR Flag) as a national symbol to honor those lost to suicide, reduce stigma around mental health treatment, and promote prevention efforts.
Key Provisions
- Officially recognizes the SAR Flag, created by a U.S. Air Force veteran, as the nation's symbol for awareness of military and veteran suicide.
- Commits to remembering and honoring the service of military members and veterans who died by suicide.
- Supports ongoing awareness efforts through the SAR Flag.
- Requires the SAR Flag to be posted above all federal buildings alongside the American Flag and POW/MIA Flag every day of the year.
- Endorses the designation of September 22 as National Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day.
- References background on high suicide rates among veterans (nearly twice that of civilians, with over 20 deaths per day) and the need to combat stigma.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This resolution does not amend or create new laws, as it is a non-binding expression of support by the House of Representatives. It introduces no legal changes to existing statutes.
Potential Impacts
- Government agencies: Federal buildings would need to display the SAR Flag daily, potentially requiring updates to flag protocols and resources for implementation.
- Citizens: Increases public focus on veteran mental health, encouraging open discussions and access to support services without judgment.
- International relations: No direct effects identified.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Military personnel and veterans, particularly those at risk or affected by suicide.
- Families of veterans who died by suicide.
- Federal government agencies responsible for building flag displays.
- Organizations involved in veteran support and suicide prevention.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- The resolution operates within Congress's authority to pass symbolic measures and does not raise constitutional concerns.
- It emphasizes breaking stigma in "warrior culture" around seeking mental health treatment.
- Sponsored by members from both parties, reflecting a focus on national unity around veteran issues during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Garbarino, Andrew R. [R-NY-2]
Cosponsors (6)
Rep. Ryan, Patrick [D-NY-18], Rep. Malliotakis, Nicole [R-NY-11], Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17], Rep. Tenney, Claudia [R-NY-24], Rep. Morelle, Joseph D. [D-NY-25], Rep. LaLota, Nick [R-NY-1]
Recent Actions
- 2025-09-18: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2025-09-18: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2025-09-18: Submitted in House
- 2025-09-18: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Supporting the designation of September 22 as "National Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day" and recognizing the Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Flag. — issued 2025-09-18 — PDF (4 pages)