Veterans Bill of Rights Act
Sponsored By: Representative Van Drew, Jefferson [R-NJ-2]
Introduced
Summary
Establish a Veterans Bill of Rights that would require the VA to publish a clear, plain-language statement of veterans' rights and benefits and put those procedures in place within six months.
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- Veterans and families would get a comprehensive handbook at discharge listing eligible programs and benefits. It must be available in print and online and updated annually and would include access to Community Care when VA care is not reasonably available.
- Care, privacy, and support rights would be spelled out. That includes strict protections for personal data, timely access to high-quality physical and mental healthcare, expanded telehealth, family support services, reasonable accommodations, and active involvement in care decisions.
- Claims, appeals, and oversight would be more transparent and accountable. The VA would have written explanations for denials, a fair appeals process with an aim to resolve appeals within 120 days, a toll-free hotline and public website with VA responses within 30 days, and annual reports to congressional Veterans Committees on complaints and processing times.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Faster VA health care for veterans
If enacted, VA would need to give veterans timely, high-quality care. Care could come from VA or community providers when needed. Mental health care, including telehealth, would be available. VA would remove access barriers, provide accommodations, and expand telehealth and local partnerships, including for rural areas.
Clearer VA claims and faster appeals
If enacted, VA would proactively tell you about benefits and eligibility. On discharge, you would get a handbook in print and online, updated each year. VA would give written decisions that explain denials and appeal options. Appeals would aim to be resolved within 120 days, with progress updates.
More job and housing help for veterans
If enacted, transitioning veterans would get job training, career counseling, and resume help. VA would offer resources to find affordable housing and prevent homelessness.
No new right to sue VA
If enacted, the Bill of Rights would not create a legal right to sue the United States or VA. Veterans could not use it in court to force benefits or remedies.
VA rights posted, privacy protected
If enacted, VA would give each veteran a printed and electronic Veterans Bill of Rights and post it online and in facilities. VA would keep your records private and explain how your data is used. A toll-free hotline and website would take complaints, and VA would respond within 30 days. VA would have up to six months after enactment to start these duties.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Van Drew, Jefferson [R-NJ-2]
NJ • R
Cosponsors
Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick, Sheila [D-FL-20]
FL • D
Sponsored 11/10/2025
Rep. Vindman, Eugene Simon [D-VA-7]
VA • D
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Rep. Pou, Nellie [D-NJ-9]
NJ • D
Sponsored 1/7/2026
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
View on Congress.gov