THE VETERANS ACCESSIBILITY ACT IS POSITIONED TO HELP YOU RECEIVE BETTER CARE
Navigating the VA system can be tough, and it’s even more difficult for Veterans living with disabilities. That’s why a group of bipartisan lawmakers is reintroducing the Veterans Accessibility Act, a bill focused on making VA programs and facilities more accessible and compliant with federal disability laws.
Veterans Accessibility Act Introduced With Bipartisan Support
Politicians on both sides of the major political parties are coming together to help the Veteran community. Through the creation of the Veterans Accessibility Act, the VA could see great improvements for those who have earned the right to access their care and benefits.
The plan is simple. Lawmakers want to create a 15-member Advisory Committee on Equal Access, made up of Veterans with disabilities, experts, and advocates. Their job will be to take a close look at how well the VA is meeting accessibility standards and recommend ways to do better.
Overall, the bill will provide Vets with a stronger voice and make sure every hero, regardless of ability, can access the benefits and care they've earned.
“It is unthinkable that federal programs intended to support our Veterans would be inaccessible to so many who live with disabilities and rely on these essential services. Our Veterans are American heroes who showed up to serve our nation, and they deserve a federal government who shows up for them and a VA that stands ready to support them. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this vital bipartisan legislation to ensure the VA is fully prepared to meet the needs of every Veteran, who have made countless sacrifices to defend and protect the freedoms of our nation,” said Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL).
Support Extends Beyond Politics
Leaders like Senators Scott, Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) are championing the effort in the Senate, while Rep. David Valadao (R-CA) is taking the lead in the House.
“In Kansas, and particularly in rural areas, Veterans with disabilities face challenges accessing the facilities and services provided by the VA. This legislation would establish an advisory committee within the VA dedicated to increasing accessibility for Veterans with disabilities by improving access to VA facilities, services, and information, and making certain the VA complies with federal accessibility laws,” said Sen. Moran.
However, like many bills helping Vets, the support of politicians isn't its only source.
The Veterans Accessibility Act continues to gain momentum, earning strong backing from groups like Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Blinded Veterans Association, the Wounded Warrior Project, and many others.
A Boost for Rural Veterans
Whether it’s improving physical spaces, online platforms, or services, the Veterans Accessibility Act aims to improve the lives of American heroes across the country by ensuring the VA is in compliance with federal law.
Being accessible has been a real problem for the VA in some instances, but no bigger example can be found than that of facilities in rural markets.
Already facing fewer resources, Veterans who rely on VA facilities in rural America also have issues dealing with literally accessing their healthcare and benefits.
The Veterans Accessibility Act is simply additional legislation that will ensure the VA follows the rules already in place while providing recommendations on how to make access easier for the Veteran population.
Can The Veterans Accessibility Act Really Help Rural Areas?
Improving health for rural Veterans closely mimics civilian population initiatives, but unfortunately Veterans have an elevated risk of poverty, homelessness, and substance use disorders.
Whether or not this new bill will help rural, urban, or suburban Veterans will all hinge on the findings of the committee, and what those in power do to change things.
At a time when there are several political roadblocks facing the VA, getting proper care to Veterans remains important, but red tape persists.
Hopefully, the passing of the Veterans Accessibility Act can deliver real results for improving access and inclusion to a population that answered the call when it was needed.
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