Slotkin Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Support Outdoor Rehabilitation for Veterans

WASHINGTON D.C. —
U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Boozman (R-AR) are proposing a new effort to expand veteran access to structured outdoor recreation programs across the country. The effort comes as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released its 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, highlighting persistent struggles with anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among former service members.
The Senators introduced the
Veterans Outdoor Rehabilitation Act
; legislation aimed at helping veterans reconnect with community and improve their well-being through outdoor recreation. Early studies show these programs are an effective tool in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety among veterans.
“Veterans have put their lives on the line to keep our country safe — yet many come home facing anxiety, depression, and PTSD,”
said Senator Slotkin.
“The outdoors can provide so many benefits to our service members looking to turn the page. Whether they choose to visit one of Michigan’s beautiful Great Lakes or hike one of the UP’s many trails, this bill expands opportunities for our nations former service members to engage in outdoor and recreational programs that strengthen both body and mind.”
Veterans have increasingly pointed to outdoor recreation as a tool for recovery and reintegration after leaving military service, noting time in nature and shared activities can help rebuild community, reduce stress, and support long-term mental health.
The bill would create a federal grant program for state veterans’ agencies to develop or expand outdoor recreation opportunities for former service members. Under the proposal, states could run programs directly or partner with local outfitters and recreation providers to offer nature-based activities. States and contracted partners are encouraged to coordinate with relevant federal land management agencies to utilize these spaces for the outdoor programs. Every state that applies would get a minimum of $200,000 to deliver services for veterans.
Click
here
for bill text.
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