Metro East Sun

Today, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost addressed the committee's first oversight hearing of the 119th Congress. The hearing, titled “Restoring Focus: Putting Veterans First in Community Care,” aimed to discuss the significance of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) community-based healthcare program established by the bipartisan MISSION Act.

Chairman Bost expressed gratitude towards Chairwoman Miller-Meeks for initially proposing the hearing topic. He emphasized that this discussion required full committee attention and reaffirmed his commitment to improving care and services for veterans.

Reflecting on past achievements, Bost mentioned the passing of the Dole Act and oversight of the Biden Administration’s VA to identify shortfalls. He then turned focus to the VA's Community Care program, enacted under the MISSION Act in 2018 with bipartisan support. This act was designed to eliminate barriers and expand access to healthcare for veterans nationwide without privatizing VA healthcare.

Bost criticized current administration practices, claiming they have "prioritized bureaucratic limitation and control of community care over veterans’ needs," manipulated scheduling practices, and discouraged seeking care outside VA systems. He stressed that these actions have real-life consequences for veterans.

"Make no mistake: Community Care is V.A. care," he stated, highlighting its importance as an extension of VA's mission rather than a substitute.

The hearing included testimonies from veterans who have experienced barriers firsthand. Bost acknowledged their courage in sharing their experiences and noted that decisions made in Washington impact veterans' lives significantly.

He concluded by recognizing Ranking Member Takano for his opening comments.