U.S. Rep. Mike Bost representing Illinois' 12th Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Rep. Mike Bost representing Illinois' 12th Congressional District | Official U.S. House headshot
This morning, the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs announced the passage of H.R. 1969, known as the No Wrong Doors for Veterans Act. The bill is a significant legislative step aimed at extending and enhancing mental health support for veterans. It includes the continuation of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program and provisions to provide adaptive prosthetics for disabled veterans.
House Committee Chairman Mike Bost highlighted the importance of this program: “Since House Republicans created the Fox Grant program in 2020, hundreds of organizations in communities across the United States have been able to provide traditional and non-traditional mental health and therapy support services to veterans in need.” He further acknowledged Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks for her role in advancing this legislation, stating that it would ensure "there is truly no wrong door for veterans and their families."
Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Health, emphasized her personal connection to the cause: “As a 24-year Army veteran and physician, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for veterans in crisis to navigate a complicated system when every second counts.” She added that this act aims to streamline access and coordination while reaffirming commitment to those who served.
In addition to H.R. 1969, several other bills were passed by the House this week focusing on various aspects of veteran affairs:
- H.R. 1815 – VA Home Loan Program Reform Act
- H.R. 217 – CHIP IN for Veterans Act of 2025
- H.R. 2201 – Improving VA Training for Military Sexual Trauma Claims Act
- H.R. 1364 – ASSIST Act of 2025
- H.R. 1147 – Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee Act
- H.R. 1286 – Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act
- H.R. 1823 – VA Budget Shortfall Accountability Act
- H.R. 1578 – Veterans Claims Education Act of 2025
These legislative efforts reflect ongoing work by lawmakers to address various needs within veteran services.