H.R.1147 - Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1147, the Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee Act of 2025, aims to improve accessibility for veterans with disabilities within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It establishes a Veterans Advisory Committee on Equal Access to advise the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on accessibility matters. The bill also includes a minor extension on the limitation of certain pension payments to veterans admitted to nursing facilities.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be the creation of a formal advisory committee dedicated to accessibility issues within the VA. This committee will assess existing barriers, provide recommendations for improvement, and report on the VA's compliance with accessibility laws. The extension of pension payments offers continued support for veterans in nursing facilities.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced accessibility of VA facilities, services, and information for veterans with disabilities.
- Improved compliance with federal accessibility laws, ensuring equal access for all veterans.
- Regular assessments and recommendations to address accessibility barriers within the VA.
- Increased representation of veterans with disabilities in advising the VA on accessibility matters.
- Continued pension payments for veterans in nursing facilities through a short-term extension.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies associated with establishing and maintaining a new advisory committee.
- Possible delays in implementing accessibility improvements due to the advisory committee process.
- Limited impact on veterans without disabilities.
- The advisory committee is set to terminate after seven years, potentially disrupting long-term accessibility efforts.
- The extension of pension payments is relatively short, requiring further action in the near future.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by promoting the well-being of veterans with disabilities. It also indirectly supports the Fourteenth Amendment's equal protection clause by advocating for equal access to services and facilities. The establishment of the advisory committee falls within Congress's legislative powers as outlined in Article I, Section 8, which grants the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare.
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).