EVEST Act

Automatic VA health enrollment for veterans

If enacted, the bill would automatically enroll many newly separated veterans into VA's patient enrollment system. It would apply to veterans discharged or separated on or after the date 90 days before enactment and to veterans whose enrollment data is sent to VA on or after enactment. The VA would have 60 days after getting the required information to enroll each eligible veteran. Within 60 days after enrollment, VA would mail a physical notice and, when practical, send an email and consider mass texts. The notice would say the veteran is enrolled, explain how to opt out, and explain how to enroll later. By August 1, 2026, VA would have to give eligible veterans an electronic certificate of eligibility and an online opt-out tool. The Comptroller General would report within 180 days on the best ways to give notice, including differences by age and by urban or rural residence. VA would report within one year after the first automatic enrollment on implementation challenges and fixes; that report must be unclassified but may include a classified annex.