Veterans Policy Overhaul: House Approves Expanded Care and Homeless Support

On Monday with a 389-9 vote, the House passed the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act in a rare bipartisan agreement. Aimed at reforming veterans' services, the measure has provisions to increase home nursing care for aging veterans, extend caregiver support, and improve homelessness assistance.

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A notable rise from the previous 65%, the Act lets the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pay 100% of expenses for home-based nursing care. It also lets the VA provide unhoused veterans with basic needs such as beds, food, transportation, and funds for transitional housing. These policies were credited with lowering veteran homelessness during the COVID-19 epidemic but had expired when the public health emergency was over.

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Prominent supporters of veterans praised the measure. "This is a crucial first step in making sure our veterans get the dignity and treatment they are due," stated American Legion National Commander James LaCoursiere Jr.

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Political differences caused delays for the measure notwithstanding general bipartisan support. Points of conflict were clauses permitting veterans to seek private treatment and limiting VA control of referrals; they were changed or eliminated to guarantee Democratic support.

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Before reaching President Biden for clearance, the measure still has to pass the Senate. Should it be passed, it marks a turning point in veterans' healthcare reform and pledges to handle urgent problems influencing veterans and their caregivers.

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