U.S. Rep. Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15) in his unflagging support of our nation’s veterans, voted to ensure that veterans and their families get better health care. The Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act will reform and improve these crucial health services for veterans and their families.
The bill will support:
• Wounded veterans and their families and caregivers
• Expand care for female veterans
• Improve mental health services
• Increase access to health care for veterans in rural areas
“We in Congress must always do what is right when it comes to our veterans and their families”, said Hinojosa. “The sacrifices our men and women in uniform make while defending our country should never be taken for granted. And the sacrifices their families make, to support their loved ones while they perform their duties, is both humbling and admirable”.
To address the unique needs of the growing number of returning women soldiers, this bill will improve health services for almost 2 million female veterans. With this legislation, the VA will be able to provide care for female veterans’ newborns for the first time in history. It will also improve access to care for veterans in rural areas, ensure that the VA can better treat veterans suffering from mental health issues, and provide the VA with resources to learn more about the tragically high suicide rate among veterans. This legislation will also support family members and caregivers who look after our injured veterans to bring them the relief they deserve.
The bill passed this week, builds on a record of accomplishments for veterans and troops over the last three years under the Democratic-led Congress, including the new G.I. Bill to provide returning troops with the promise of a college education; historic investments in veterans’ health care and providing that funding one year in advance to prevent political or legislative delays; expanding economic opportunities for returning soldiers and improving care for those with PTSD.
“As lawmakers, we will always continue to invest in supporting the needs of our troops, our veterans and their families, especially when it comes to health care”, said Hinojosa.
This bill is supported by a broad coalition of veterans groups including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, AMVETS, Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Wounded Warriors Project and the National Military Family Association.
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