Greetings NOVA Members –

The 118^th Congress has begun, but before we start the new Congress and new year, I am happy to report that a FY 2023 budget in the form of an omnibus funding package passed. VA will receive its largest budget ever with $303.8 billion in FY 2023. That is up about 10% from FY 2022 levels. VA Medical Care will receive a 22% increase from FY 2022 totaling $118.7 billion, which includes:

• $13.9 billion for mental healthcare to provide treatment and support for veterans receiving mental health services
• $840.5 million for women’s health, to help VA deliver gender-specific healthcare services, as well as retrofit its facilities 
• $498 million for suicide prevention outreach
• $183.3 million for substance use disorder programs 
• $663 million for opioid abuse prevention
• $2.7 billion for Homeless Assistance Programs

The bill also includes $5 billion for implementation of the PACT Act and a NOVA supported research bill – H.R. 5721, VA Infrastructure Powers Exceptional Research Act (VIPER Act) which ensures VA researchers can continue to be on the forefront of health research and novel discoveries by allowing them to be compensated for research affiliated with other entities.

The 117^th second session was busy, and I want to thank all of you who helped us in our advocacy efforts – we had many successes, but as always, more work needs to be done. I invite anyone who wants to help us advocate for VA nurses and healthcare to join us on the Legislative Committee. Information on how to add your voice to our efforts can be found on the NOVA website. We are looking for representation from all 50 States as there is strength in numbers, and we need LPN/LVN/RNs and APRNs to help us advocate for all VA healthcare professionals. 

We will be hosting a Member on the Hill Day on March 9, 2023. Discussing VA issues with your legislators (House & Senate) has never been more critical. An email was sent with more information on how you can register and attend. We will also be holding a webinar on Congress and how to schedule those meetings and what to expect while you are in DC. Be assured that we will be here to help every step of the way by providing mentorship, tools of the trade, and a chance for you to partner with those from your respective states when visiting your members of congress and staff.

Stay tuned to NOVA’s website and social media for updates on the 118^th Congress, leadership, legislation introduced and other items of interest which affects how you provide healthcare to our Veterans.

Stay Tuned!