Fisher House Availability Act of 2025
Summary
The Fisher House Availability Act of 2025 aims to expand the availability of temporary lodging facilities, specifically Fisher Houses, managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. It seeks to include members of the Armed Forces, individuals on active duty, and their families on a space-available basis. The bill amends Title 38 of the United States Code to implement these changes.
The key change involves broadening the criteria for who can utilize these lodging facilities. This expansion is intended to support military personnel and their families who need to travel significant distances to receive medical care.
The bill also directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish criteria for providing access to these facilities on a space-available basis, ensuring a structured approach to managing the expanded eligibility.
Expected Effects
The Fisher House Availability Act of 2025 will likely increase the demand for temporary lodging at VA facilities. This may lead to better support for active duty military members and their families during medical treatments.
It could also require the VA to develop and implement new policies for managing access to these facilities. This includes defining eligibility criteria and managing space allocation.
Ultimately, the act aims to improve the support system for military personnel and their families seeking medical care.
Potential Benefits
- Provides temporary lodging for active duty military members and their families.
- Supports individuals traveling long distances for medical care at VA facilities.
- Expands the definition of who can receive familial support during medical treatment.
- Could improve access to care by reducing the burden of travel and lodging costs.
- Aims to strengthen support systems for military families during times of medical need.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased demand may strain existing resources and capacity at Fisher Houses.
- New administrative procedures may be needed to manage eligibility and access.
- Space-available basis may create uncertainty for those seeking lodging.
- Potential for increased costs to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Could lead to prioritization challenges if demand exceeds available space.
Constitutional Alignment
The Fisher House Availability Act appears to align with the Constitution's mandate to provide for the common defense and promote the general welfare. Specifically, it supports military personnel and their families, which can be seen as fulfilling the government's responsibility to care for those who serve in the armed forces.
While the Constitution does not explicitly mention veterans' affairs or temporary lodging, the act falls within the implied powers of Congress to enact legislation necessary and proper for executing its enumerated powers, as outlined in Article I, Section 8.
There are no apparent conflicts with individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).