The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is offering the FY25 Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program to support the planning, implementation, and enhancement of Veterans Treatment Courts (VTCs). The grant aims to improve judicially supervised interventions for justice-involved veterans with substance use disorders (SUD), mental health disorders, and co-occurring conditions such as PTSD or traumatic brain injuries related to military service. The program integrates evidence-based treatment, mandatory drug testing, incentives, sanctions, and transitional services to reduce recidivism, increase treatment access, and prevent overdoses.

The program is divided into three categories: Planning and Implementation (Category 1), Enhancement (Category 2), and Statewide (Category 3). Funding under these categories will support activities such as developing new VTCs, enhancing existing programs, and scaling operations to meet statewide needs. The anticipated total funding available is $19,250,000, with awards ranging up to $2,500,000 depending on the category. Projects have a 48-month performance period beginning October 1, 2025. A total of 18 awards are expected to be granted, including funding for up to five planning and implementation projects, 12 enhancement projects, and one statewide initiative.

Eligibility varies by category but includes state and local government entities, tribal governments, public housing authorities, and nonprofit organizations. Applicants for statewide projects must demonstrate the capacity to coordinate and enhance VTC services across jurisdictions. All applicants must document partnerships, align with the 10 Key Components of VTCs, and ensure access for veterans not eligible for Department of Veterans Affairs services.

Applications must include a detailed proposal narrative, budget justification, and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for partnerships. Key deadlines include submission of the SF-424 form by April 17, 2025, via Grants.gov and the full application by April 24, 2025, through JustGrants. Applicants are encouraged to begin registrations in SAM.gov and Grants.gov well in advance, as delays in these processes could hinder application submission.

Evaluation criteria include the description of need, project goals and objectives, design and implementation strategies, organizational capacity, and budget alignment with program goals. Applications will also be reviewed for geographic diversity and adherence to funding priorities, such as early identification of eligible veterans and expansion of services to underserved populations. Award notifications are expected by September 30, 2025.

Post-award requirements include quarterly financial and performance reports, participation in national evaluations, and compliance with civil rights and financial management standards. The program also encourages applicants to plan for the sustainability of their VTC operations beyond the federal funding period. Additional information, resources, and templates are available in the DOJ’s online portals and guidance materials.