Updated: Veterans Health Ruling is a Setback for Santa Barbara Group

Santa Barbara – A Santa Barbara Based organization that fights for veterans benefits, is “appalled” at a ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals regarding health care. Veterans United for Truth says there’s a problem with the system and soldiers who have come home, that display suicidal symptoms are not getting swift and adequate treatment. The court did not agree. It says changes in veteran benefits need to be made by the President or Congress.”My first reaction was total shock. I thought it was unconscionable that the court would have a 10-1 decision denying veterans their rights,” said Bob Handy, Chairman, Veterans United for TruthThe court ruling also said it could not conclude the Veteran’s Affairs Department treatment of veterans was unconstitutional.Bob Handy says the lack of adequate mental health care for veterans leads to thousands of suicides annually. According to A Center for New American Security, between 2005 – 2010, veterans committed suicide at a rate of 1 every 36 hours. Veterans also made up 20% of suicides in the United States.Handy also says an appeal to the latest ruling will be filed.Here are some resources for Veterans:Veterans United for Truthhttp://www.veteransunitedfortruth.orgVeterans for Peace:http://www.vfpsb.orgKEY News Reporter Scott Hurst has the story.