H.R.217 - Communities Helping Invest through Property and Improvements Needed for Veterans Act; CHIP IN for Veterans Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 217, also known as the CHIP IN for Veterans Act, seeks to make permanent a pilot program that allows the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to accept donated facilities and related improvements. The bill amends Title 38 of the United States Code to remove the pilot program's sunset clause and integrate it directly into the VA's standard operating procedures. This change aims to streamline the process for communities to contribute resources to support veteran care.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be the permanent authorization for the VA to accept donated facilities and improvements, thereby enhancing the VA's capacity to provide services to veterans. By removing the uncertainty associated with a pilot program, communities may be more willing to invest in facilities benefiting veterans. The bill also includes technical amendments to ensure consistency within Title 38.
Potential Benefits
- Increased resources for veteran care through community donations.
- Streamlined process for accepting donations, potentially reducing bureaucratic delays.
- Encourages community involvement in supporting veterans.
- Could lead to improved facilities and services for veterans.
- Provides long-term certainty for community investment in veteran support.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for unequal distribution of resources, favoring communities with greater capacity to donate.
- Risk of the VA becoming overly reliant on donations, potentially reducing the incentive for direct government funding.
- Possible administrative challenges in managing and maintaining donated facilities.
- The effective date is set for December 16, 2026, delaying immediate benefits.
- No clear guidelines on the types or quality of donations accepted, which could lead to inconsistencies.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8), which allows Congress to provide for the well-being of its citizens, including veterans. The bill does not infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties outlined in the Bill of Rights. The establishment of programs to support veterans is a long-standing practice and generally considered within the powers granted to Congress.
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).