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Rural Veterans Transportation to Care Act
4/22/2025, 8:05 AM
Summary of Bill HR 1733
The bill proposes expanding the existing grant program of the VA to include funding for innovative transportation options specifically tailored to meet the needs of veterans in highly rural areas. These transportation solutions may include partnerships with local transportation providers, ride-sharing services, or the use of technology to facilitate transportation coordination.
Additionally, the legislation seeks to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the grant program by streamlining the application process and increasing transparency in the allocation of funds. This will help ensure that resources are distributed equitably and reach those veterans most in need of transportation assistance. Overall, the Innovative Transportation for Veterans Act aims to enhance the quality of life for veterans in remote areas by providing them with reliable and accessible transportation options. By addressing this critical need, the bill seeks to support the well-being and independence of our nation's veterans.
Congressional Summary of HR 1733
Rural Veterans Transportation to Care Act
This bill expands and makes permanent the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) grant program that provides transportation options to veterans for medical purposes.
First, the bill expands the program to cover transportation for veterans in rural areas, in addition to veterans in highly rural areas (who are already eligible under the program).
The bill also authorizes the VA to award such grants to county veterans service organizations and tribal organizations to assist veterans with transportation for medical care.
Further, the bill increases the maximum grant amount to $60,000. However, if a grant recipient is required to purchase a vehicle to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, such grant amount may be increased to not more than $80,000.
Finally, the bill defines rural and highly rural in the same manner as the terms are given under the Rural-Urban Commuting Areas (RUCA) coding system of the Department of Agriculture. RUCA uses population density and commuting patterns to assign designations.
