Proposed legislation requiring the Veterans Affairs Department to train and provide service dogs for former troops is drawing mixed reviews from influential veterans’ groups.

A bill introduced by Rep. Michael Grimm, R-N.Y., calls for VA to launch a five-year pilot program to study the value of having former service members diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues train service dogs as part of their therapy. The dogs could then stay with their handlers or be provided to other veterans who need them.