H.R.1685 - Justice for ALS Veterans Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1685, the Justice for ALS Veterans Act of 2025, aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code to extend increased dependency and indemnity compensation to surviving spouses of veterans who die from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), regardless of the duration of the veteran's illness prior to death. The bill also mandates a report from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to Congress identifying other service-connected disabilities that should be treated similarly to ALS in terms of compensation. This report must include a list of service-connected disabilities with high mortality rates and detailed information on the average life expectancy for persons with each such disability.
Expected Effects
The bill will ensure that surviving spouses of veterans who die from ALS receive increased dependency and indemnity compensation, regardless of how long the veteran suffered from the disease. It will also prompt a review of other service-connected disabilities to determine if similar compensation benefits should be extended. The changes will apply to veterans who die from ALS on or after October 1, 2025.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial support to surviving spouses of veterans who die from ALS.
- Recognizes the unique challenges faced by families affected by ALS.
- Promotes equity in compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities.
- Encourages a review of other disabilities for potential compensation adjustments.
- Offers potential for expanded benefits to other deserving veteran families.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased financial burden on the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Potential for disputes regarding eligibility and implementation.
- May create pressure to extend similar benefits to other conditions, increasing costs.
- The eight-year marriage requirement could exclude some deserving surviving spouses.
- Report requirement adds administrative burden to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by supporting veterans and their families. Congress has the power to legislate regarding veterans' affairs under Article I, Section 8, which grants the power to raise and support armies and provide for a navy. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).