HR 1476, PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act, will authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make grants to State and local entities and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) to carry out peer-to-peer mental health programs. As you know veteran suicide has reached epidemic level. We are losing thousands of veterans to suicide every year. In most cases mental health plays a role in these tragic deaths. The VA is not able to provide needed services on the local level to arrest this trend. They lack both the expertise and the resources to expand into local communities and tribal areas. This bill will make State and local governments and NGOs allies in the battle against veteran suicide.