Sen. Moran Introduces Sweeping Bill to Overhaul VA Healthcare and Expand Veteran Disability Benefits
The Take Care of America’s Veterans Act has been introduced in the Senate and is currently waiting on the legislative calendar for further action. It is actively moving through the early stages of the process. There are no upcoming votes scheduled at this time.
While veteran issues often have broad support, the massive size and high cost of this bill may lead to it being broken into smaller pieces rather than passing as one giant package.
VA employees face significant organizational changes. The bill requires a 60-day notice before any reduction in force, establishes a new telework policy with detailed assessment requirements, and creates new reporting and training mandates. It also reorganizes the acquisition function under a new Assistant Secretary and requires a strategic human capital plan. Some provisions protect employees from arbitrary RIFs, while others add new performance and accountability requirements.
“not later than the date that is 60 days before the date on which the Secretary commences carrying out such reduction in force, submit to the appropriate committees of Congress and the employees of the Department who will be affected”
Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 433.
The bill is now on the schedule for the full chamber to consider. It's in line for debate and a vote.
Introduced in the Senate. Read the first time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under Read the First Time.
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Introduced in Senate
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Senator Richard Blumenthal and veterans' groups are criticizing the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act for using a $57 billion offset that slashes disability ratings for tinnitus and sleep apnea. Critics call the funding mechanism a 'shell game' that balances the budget on the backs of veterans.
The Take Care of America’s Veterans Act bundles dozens of bills to end the 'wounded veteran tax' and expand survivor benefits. However, the VFW and DAV strongly oppose the bill's plan to fund these expansions by cutting future disability compensation for conditions like tinnitus and sleep apnea.
Chairmen Mike Bost and Jerry Moran introduced the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act to modernize VA healthcare and benefits. The bill includes the Major Richard Star Act and the Veterans ACCESS Act, which codifies wait-time standards and expands community care options for millions of veterans.
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Take Care of America’s Veterans Act
Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.