Summer on the Hill is always hectic. The 118th Congress is coming to an end with many legislative priorities still on the table. For NOVA, we continue to advocate for VA healthcare and what you as healthcare providers, need to take care of Veterans.

As I have reported the last few months, a Veterans package has been introduced after months of negotiations between House and Senate VA committees - H.R. 8371, the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act contains provisions that would expand access and services to the most vulnerable Veterans, and strengthen benefits and health care for families, caregivers, and survivors.

NOVA supports most of the bill but has serious concerns about provisions that would erode internal funding and further jeopardize the VA healthcare system. We sent a letter to both House and Senate VA Committee Chairs and Ranking Members noting our concerns. Sections 101 and 105 of the bill would further expand use of community care with NOVA President Catherine Giasson saying, “we believe that funding should be utilized to hire critical staff, rebuild infrastructure, and strengthen the VA’s healthcare system.”

The bill has some opposition and negotiations continue as others – AFGE, APA and several VA organizations have noted similar concerns. Secretary McDonough in testimony and at several press conferences since the bill was introduced has continued to argue that “there are a series of mandates in the bill that do not come with any funding.” Our partners in the VSO community have urged quick passage and continue to speak out against the politics that will erode Veterans care.

As we move into the final months of this session of Congress, we must continue to speak up and advocate by reminding policy makers that VA remains the only Federal health system that provides the highest level of coordinated care. VHA also trains many doctors as well as providing critical research that helps not just Veterans but the U.S. population writ large.

As August approaches, I urge all of you to register for my Contacting Congress During Recess Webinar and start scheduling appointments with your members and staff.

I have provided the links to both the House of Representatives and United States Senate so that you can locate the District/State offices closest to you.

U.S. House
U.S. Senate

Keep in mind that with the November election just a few months away – most legislators will be hosting Town Hall meetings which is another wonderful opportunity to discuss VA and NOVA priorities.

Keep advocating for yourselves, Veterans, and the VA System!