Summary of HRES 542: National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month and Day

Bill Number: HRES 542

Introduced: June 24, 2025

Status: Submitted in House

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HRES 542 aims to express support for the designation of June 2025 as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month" and June 27, 2025, as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day." The resolution seeks to raise awareness about post-traumatic stress (PTS), particularly among members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their families.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes several important provisions:

1. Support for Designation: The House of Representatives expresses its support for the establishment of National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month and Day.

2. Educational Efforts: It endorses the initiatives of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Defense, along with the medical community, to educate service members, veterans, their families, and the public about:

   • Causes of post-traumatic stress
   • Symptoms associated with PTS
   • Available treatment options

3. Cultural Change: The resolution emphasizes the need for a cultural shift regarding post-traumatic stress, highlighting that personal interactions can significantly impact lives and treatment outcomes.

4. Support for Treatment: It encourages military leadership to ensure appropriate treatment for service members suffering from post-traumatic stress.

5. Family Impact Recognition: The resolution acknowledges the effects of post-traumatic stress on the spouses and families of service members and veterans.

Affected Parties

The resolution primarily affects:
- Members of the Armed Forces
- Veterans
- Families of service members and veterans
- The broader public, as awareness and education efforts are intended to reach all citizens

Legislative Actions

• June 24, 2025: The resolution was referred to the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs for consideration. The Speaker will determine the period for review by these committees.

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by:
- Scott H. Peters (Primary Sponsor)
- Mike Thompson (Cosponsor)
- Jack Bergman (Cosponsor)
- Seth Moulton (Cosponsor)
- Donald Norcross (Cosponsor)
- Brian J. Mast (Cosponsor)

Conclusion

HRES 542 serves as a significant step towards increasing awareness and understanding of post-traumatic stress, particularly in the context of military service. By designating June 2025 as a month dedicated to this cause, the resolution aims to foster education, support, and cultural change surrounding the treatment of PTS, ultimately benefiting service members, veterans, and their families.