The House of Representatives has passed a significant veterans' package, H.R. 8371, known as The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. This legislation received strong bipartisan support and aims to address various needs within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services.
Chairman Mike Bost stated, "For nearly two years we have been listening to the veteran community to find the gaps within VA’s services to build a VA that meets the needs of today’s community and puts veterans – not government bureaucracy – at the center of the system." He credited Rep. Juan Ciscomani for his leadership on this initiative.
Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized Congress's responsibility to care for veterans, saying, "America owes an enormous debt of gratitude to the men and women who served this country." Majority Leader Steve Scalise noted that the act aims to improve healthcare, economic opportunities, and reduce VA bureaucracy.
Majority Whip Tom Emmer expressed gratitude for efforts ensuring quality healthcare for veterans. Rep. Ciscomani highlighted reforms in employment opportunities and care delivery in his statement: "The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act makes great strides to close gaps in economic opportunity and care."
Senator Elizabeth Dole praised the bipartisan effort: "Today, our elected leaders proved that bipartisan cooperation is still possible," expressing hope for swift Senate passage.
Various veterans service organizations also applauded the bill's passage. Steve Schwab from the Elizabeth Dole Foundation called it a major milestone for veterans. Pat Murray from VFW acknowledged its potential life-saving impact. Robert Thomas from Paralyzed Veterans of America stressed its importance for disabled veterans' independence.
Bonnie Carroll from TAPS noted its benefits for caregivers and survivors while Joy Ilem from DAV emphasized improvements in mental health services among others. Kathryn Monet from NCHV highlighted provisions addressing veteran homelessness.
Jose Ramos from Wounded Warrior Project pointed out its broad support across veteran communities while Lt. Gen. Brian T. Kelly from MOAA underscored its significance during National Family Caregivers Month.
H.R. 8371 is backed by over 50 organizations including The American Legion, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), AMVETS, Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Elizabeth Dole Foundation among others.
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