H.R.785 - Representing our Seniors at VA Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.785, the "Representing our Seniors at VA Act of 2025," aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code. The amendment seeks to include a representative from the National Association of State Veterans Homes on the Department of Veterans Affairs' Geriatrics and Gerontology Advisory Committee. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 28, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would ensure that the National Association of State Veterans Homes has a formal voice within the VA's advisory committee on geriatrics and gerontology. This could lead to better-informed recommendations and policies regarding the care of elderly veterans. It may also improve the quality and relevance of the VA's geriatric healthcare programs.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced representation for state veterans homes in VA advisory processes.
- Improved understanding of the needs of elderly veterans in state-run facilities.
- More informed policy recommendations from the Geriatrics and Gerontology Advisory Committee.
- Potential for better coordination between the VA and state veterans homes.
- Increased focus on the specific needs of aging veterans within the VA healthcare system.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased lobbying influence from the National Association of State Veterans Homes.
- Risk of disproportionate focus on state veterans homes at the expense of other geriatric care models.
- Possible bureaucratic delays due to the expanded committee membership.
- Limited impact if the representative's input is not effectively integrated into committee decisions.
- No identified disadvantages regarding the US Constitution.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause of the Preamble. By seeking to improve the care and representation of elderly veterans, the bill arguably promotes the general welfare. Furthermore, Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States, supports the legislative action to care for veterans.
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).