Caregiver Assistance And Resource Enhancement Act

Statement

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. TEAGUE. Mr. Speaker, during the upcoming August recess, many of my colleagues and I will travel home to visit with constituents and speak with them about their problems and find ways in which we can help them. As is often the case, my constituents continue to inspire me with their willingness to take on hard challenges themselves and help their neighbors in need. Many veterans throughout my district often volunteer their time to drive fellow veterans to medical appointments even though the drive can last over 3 or 4 hours. It is a hardship that too many face and should be made easier.

That was why I introduced H.R. 2738, a bill that would direct the Secretary of the VA to reimburse family caregivers of disabled veterans for travel expenses, including lodging and food, in connection with authorized VA treatment. Rural veteran face too many obstacles when seeking medical treatment, and I believe this legislation will make their lives a little easier while they seek the care that they were promised. I am very happy to note that the language contained in H.R. 2738 was included in H.R. 3155. H.R. 3155 includes many provisions that are necessary to assist not only veterans, but those that are caring for our wounded warriors. We made a lot of promises to our veterans, and it's about time we began to honor them. I hope that my colleagues will support this very important piece of legislation, and I urge its passage.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source