OFFICIALS LEGISLATION INTEREST GROUPS PUBLIC STATEMENTS COMMITTEES VETOES

Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act

Floor Speech

Date: Nov. 18, 2024
Location: Washington, DC

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 8371, the Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act.

As a veteran, physician, a caregiver myself, and a Member of Congress actively addressing these issues, I have witnessed firsthand the immense challenges that caregivers face, especially as our veteran population continues to age.

Access to mental health services remains inconsistent, leaving many caregivers struggling to find the support they desperately need. The weight of caring for veterans with complex conditions can lead to significant stress, anxiety, and burnout. That is why it is crucial for us to pass this bill which includes critical provisions to enhance and reform the delivery of care and services at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Among its key measures, this legislation expands access to home- and community-based services, allowing aging veterans to receive care at home instead of at institutions. It also fully funds the VA's VET TEC program which provides high-tech career training for veterans, with an 84 percent graduation rate and an average starting salary of over $66,000.

This bill would also improve the timeliness and quality of care for veterans under community care, ensuring that medical records are returned more quickly, and veterans receive the care they need in a timely manner.

Additionally, it includes important provisions to help address veteran homelessness by increasing funding for services that assist veterans with transportation to medical, housing, and employment appointments.

As a Member of Congress and as Americans, we have a responsibility to care for those who bravely fought for our country. By advocating for meaningful solutions that genuinely support our veterans and their caregivers, we can take important steps toward improving the lives of our Nation's heroes and those who care for them.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT


Source
arrow_upward