BILL NUMBER: AB 2611 VETOED DATE: 09/23/2012 To the Members of the California State Assembly: I am returning Assembly Bill 2611 without my signature. This bill authorizes superior courts to implement veterans treatment courts, and encourages those courts to maintain information and statistics regarding the success rate. A 2008 Rand Corporation study found that nearly 19 percent of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans were reporting symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder or major depression. I applaud the author's interest in encouraging courts to focus on helping these offenders rather than focusing solely on the punishment. These matters, however, fall logically within the sound discretion of the courts. Veterans treatment courts operate today in 15 counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Ventura. Nine more counties are considering whether to establish one. A bill is not necessary. I urge courts to continue to explore ways to meet the needs of veterans who have served their nation, including establishing a veterans treatment court. Sincerely, Edmund G. Brown Jr.