Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.980 - Modernizing the Veterans On-Campus Experience Act of 2025 (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R. 980, the "Modernizing the Veterans On-Campus Experience Act of 2025," aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code. The bill focuses on improving the provision of on-campus educational and vocational counseling services for veterans by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Specifically, it seeks to eliminate the requirement that these counseling services be provided exclusively by certain VA employees.

Expected Effects

The likely effect of this bill is increased flexibility in how the VA provides on-campus counseling services. This could potentially lead to more efficient service delivery and a broader range of qualified professionals providing support to veterans. The bill may also allow the VA to leverage partnerships with external organizations or institutions to enhance the quality and accessibility of these services.

Potential Benefits

  • Potentially more efficient use of VA resources.
  • Increased access to counseling services for veterans on campus.
  • Opportunity for the VA to partner with other organizations to provide specialized counseling.
  • Modernization of veteran support services to meet current needs.
  • Possible improvement in the quality of counseling services through a broader range of providers.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Potential for reduced quality control if external providers are not adequately vetted.
  • Possible disruption of existing counseling services during the transition.
  • Risk of inconsistent service delivery if standards are not clearly defined.
  • Potential for increased costs if external providers are more expensive than current VA employees.
  • Possible decrease in job security for current VA employees providing these services.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve services for veterans. Specifically, the Preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare". Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 also grants Congress the power to provide for the general welfare of the United States. 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).