Senate Advances Veterans Care Bill, Awaits Final House Approval

On Thursday, the Senate approved the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act with unanimous support, representing a notable advancement in the care for veterans. The bill, having already passed the House, now necessitates a second vote in the House because of minor technical adjustments.

The legislation features essential measures to assist aging and disabled veterans, including a rise in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) coverage for home nursing care expenses from 65% to 100%. Advocates have consistently championed this change, highlighting the significance of enabling veterans to spend their last days at home if they wish.

Furthermore, the legislation enhances assistance for homeless veterans by increasing the VA’s per diem payments to transitional housing organizations from 115% to 133%. It also provides funding for necessities such as bedding, food, and transportation to medical appointments.

Even with bipartisan commendation, discussions regarding the VA’s community care program continue. The bill contains provisions that prevent the VA from overruling doctors' referrals for external care. Yet, it does not encompass broader measures for non-VA mental health and substance abuse treatment.

With Republicans poised to take control of Congress next year, they are anticipated to persist in promoting expanded access to private care.

“This bill represents a major victory for veterans,” stated Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., noting that outstanding issues will continue to be a focus in upcoming legislative sessions.

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