Issue Position: Veterans' Health Care

Issue Position

Rep. Eshoo has championed the best possible healthcare for our troops and veterans and continues to ensure that all of our nation's heroes are provided for.

Rep. Eshoo voted for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act which was carefully designed to protect and strengthen TRICARE and the VA health system. Those who are covered under TRICARE or by the VA, will not be required to purchase additional coverage to comply with the new insurance mandate. Out of an abundance of caution, the House passed an additional, bill H.R. 4887, the TRICARE Affirmation Act to further clarify that all those serving in the military and their families, as well as military retirees and their families under the age of 65, have healthcare that meets the minimum benefit standard in the reform bill and honors their important sacrifices for our country. This bill was signed into law on March 23, 2009.

Rep. Eshoo voted for the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act which gives the Veterans Administration the authority to craft its healthcare budget a full year in advance with cash on hand. For the first time in history, the Veterans Administration will have the ability to invest taxpayers' dollars effectively and efficiently while delivering healthcare to veterans in a timelier manner. This bill was signed into law on October 22, 2009.

Rep. Eshoo is a cosponsor of the Agent Orange Equity Act which requires the VA to consider all Agent Orange exposure claims, regardless of whether the exposure occurred on land, through water, or through exposure to contaminated aircraft.

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