Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2023

12/27/2024, 10:38 AM

Summary of Bill HR 562

Bill 118 hr 562, also known as the Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2023, aims to enhance the support and services provided to veterans by members of Congress. The bill seeks to streamline the process for veterans to access assistance from their congressional representatives by establishing a dedicated office within each congressional office specifically focused on veterans' issues.

Under this legislation, each congressional office will be required to designate a staff member as a Veterans Services Coordinator, whose primary responsibility will be to assist veterans in navigating the various government agencies and programs available to them. These coordinators will be trained to provide information on benefits, healthcare, and other resources available to veterans, as well as to help veterans resolve any issues they may be facing.

Additionally, the bill mandates that each congressional office establish a Veterans Advisory Council, comprised of local veterans and stakeholders, to provide input and feedback on the services and support being provided to veterans in their community. This council will meet regularly to discuss ways to improve access to services and address any gaps in support for veterans. Overall, the Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2023 aims to ensure that veterans receive the assistance and support they need from their congressional representatives in a timely and efficient manner. By establishing dedicated resources and support systems within congressional offices, this bill seeks to improve the overall experience for veterans seeking assistance with their benefits and services.

Congressional Summary of HR 562

Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2023

This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to permit a Member of Congress (upon request) to use a VA facility to meet with constituents. The VA and the General Services Administration must jointly identify available spaces in VA facilities for such purposes.

The VA must prescribe regulations regarding such use of a VA facility by a Member of Congress.

Current Status of Bill HR 562

Bill HR 562 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 26, 2023. Bill HR 562 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on January 26, 2023.  Bill HR 562's most recent activity was Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 794. as of December 24, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 562

Total Number of Sponsors
3
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
3
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
66
Democrat Cosponsors
14
Republican Cosponsors
52
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 562

Primary Policy Focus

Armed Forces and National Security

Potential Impact Areas

Administrative law and regulatory proceduresDepartment of Veterans AffairsElections, voting, political campaign regulationGovernment buildings, facilities, and propertyMembers of Congress

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 562

Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2023Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2023To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to permit Members of Congress to use facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs for the purposes of meeting with constituents, and for other purposes.
Start holding our government accountable!

Comments