HB24-1236 Summary

• Establishes June 12 as "Women Veterans Appreciation Day" in Colorado, to be observed annually in public schools and by the public.

• Over three million women have served in U.S. military history, including over 47,000 Colorado women veterans and 8,500 currently serving in the armed forces.

• Recognizes that women veterans face disproportionate challenges including higher rates of unemployment, homelessness, poverty, PTSD (three times higher than male counterparts), and suicide (six times higher than civilian counterparts).

• Notes that one in twelve women experience sexual assault while on active duty and that women veterans are often denied access to specialized services available to male veterans.

• Directs the day to serve as an annual call for veterans organizations statewide to review programs and improve outcomes for women veterans and their families.