Higgins Announces Approval of Bill Automatically Enrolling Eligible Veterans in VA Health Care

Press Release

Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced the House of Representatives approved the Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act (H.R. 4673). The bill makes enrollment in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care automatic for those eligible.

"For veterans juggling home responsibilities, new jobs and other changes that come with the transition to civilian life the step of enrolling in VA health benefits sometimes falls through the cracks," said Congressman Higgins. "This bill ensures health care resources are available at the ready for veterans, many of whom deal with the physical and psychological impacts of serving long after discharge from service."

Currently those departing military service must self-enroll in VA health care. Under the bill, the Department of Defense would share information with the Department of Veterans Affairs to facilitate automatic enrollment. Veterans enrolled would also have the ability to opt-out if they choose. The Congressional Budget Office predicts an additional 58,000 veterans would be enrolled in VA health care annually as a result of auto enrollment.

Organizations supporting the bill include the American Legion, the American Psychological Association and AMVETS.

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