Part 1.

Enacts new GS 122C-82. Defines first responder and veteran. Directs the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to establish and administer a statewide suicide prevention program among first responders and veterans (Program). Lists nine requirements for the Program, including intervention skills training. Directs DHHS to designate a Program coordinator whose responsibilities include at least six listed things, including coordinating suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention programs, services, and efforts within the State for first responders and veterans. Authorizes DHHS to adopt rules to implement this statute.

Appropriates an unspecified amount for 2017-18 and 2018-19 in recurring funds from the General Fund to the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Disorders (Division) to be used to implement the Program, with to-be specified amounts being used for four listed purposes, including the funding of a permanent, full-time position for the Program coordinator.

Part 1 is effective July 1, 2017, and expires for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2021.

Part 2.

Enacts new GS 105-269.8. Authorizes an individual entitled to a refund of income taxes under GS Chapter 105, Article 4, Part 2, to elect to contribute all or part of the refund to be used for the Program. Directs the Secretary of Revenue to make appropriate changes to the individual income tax form and instructions. Directs the Secretary to transmit contributions made under this section to the State Treasurer to be distributed for the Program, and directs the State Treasurer to distribute the contributions to the Division for the Program.

States legislative findings that the funds under this act are intended to be additional funding for suicide prevention and are not intended to replace current suicide prevention appropriations.

Part 2 is effective January 1, 2021.

Part 3.

Enacts new GS 143B-1222.10, creating a 25-member Veterans Reintegration Task Force within the Department of Veterans and Military Affairs (DVMA). Provides for the membership of the Task Force, with the Governor appointing 10 members, the Speaker of the House appointing six members, the President Pro Tem. of the Senate appointing six members, and including the Secretaries of the DVMA and DHHS and the Director of the Division, or their designees. Provides for the administration, staffing, meeting, and funding of the Task Force. Directs the Task Force to study and develop a statewide action plan on six listed issues as they impact active duty service members, veterans, and their dependents, including reintegrating from military to civilian status, and to report its findings to the Governor and the General Assembly by December 1, 2018, and to report to each subsequent regular legislative session within one week of its convening.

Part 3 is effective when the bill becomes law.