Reps. Sykes, Takano Introduce Bill To Extend Critical Veterans Services And Programs
Bill would prevent a lapse in benefits for veterans and their families nationwide
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Ranking Member Mark Takano (CA-39) introduced the Extension of Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2024, legislation to extend critical Department of Veterans Affairs’ programs and services that veterans across the country rely on.
“As public servants, we have an obligation to serve our veterans as well as they have served our country. I’m proud to co-lead this legislation to ensure veterans can continue to access the benefits and services they have rightfully earned,” said Rep. Sykes. “I urge my colleagues to immediately pass this critical legislation so our veterans and their families do not have to worry about a lapse in the benefits they rely on.”
“I am very glad to work with Representative Sykes on this important legislation to keep much-needed VA services in place for veterans who need them. Whether it is covering nursing home care for disabled and elderly veterans, keeping veterans at risk of homelessness in their homes or providing burial benefits to ease the burden on a veteran's family, these are programs that veterans and their families rely on and benefits they have earned. I hope we can get this common-sense bill passed as soon as possible,” said Ranking Member Takano.
This legislation would reauthorize several key veteran programs and services. It includes provisions to provide nursing home care for elderly and disabled veterans, support homeless veterans and prevent veterans and their families from falling into homelessness, improve access to mental health care, and allow burial benefits.
Reps. Yadira Caraveo (CO-08), Frank Mrvan (IN-01), Matt Cartwright (PA-08), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) are original co-sponsors of this legislation.
The text of the bill can be found HERE.