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SAFE STEPS for Veterans Act of 2025
12/11/2025, 12:03 PM
Summary of Bill S 668
The bill outlines the responsibilities of the Office of Falls Prevention, which include conducting research on falls prevention, developing best practices for healthcare providers, and providing education and training to VA staff and veterans. Additionally, the office will be tasked with collecting data on falls among veterans and evaluating the effectiveness of falls prevention programs.
In addition to establishing the Office of Falls Prevention, the bill also includes provisions for improving coordination between the VA and other federal agencies, as well as increasing collaboration with community organizations and healthcare providers. The ultimate goal of these efforts is to reduce the number of falls among veterans and improve their overall health and well-being. Overall, Bill 119 s 668 represents a bipartisan effort to address an important issue affecting veterans and improve the quality of care provided by the VA. By establishing the Office of Falls Prevention and implementing evidence-based strategies, this legislation has the potential to make a significant impact on the health and safety of veterans across the country.
Congressional Summary of S 668
Supporting Access to Falls Education and Prevention and Strengthening Training Efforts and Promoting Safety Initiatives for Veterans Act of 2025 or the SAFE STEPS for Veterans Act of 2025
This bill addresses certain mobility and aging care and services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
First, the bill requires the establishment and operation of the Office of Falls Prevention within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) for purposes of providing, evaluating, and improving VA health care services related to falls prevention.
Among other duties, the office must oversee and support a national education campaign for veterans, their families, and health care providers that focuses on reducing falls and increases awareness of available benefits or services provided by the VA to reduce falls.
The bill also expands membership of the Interagency Coordinating Committee on Healthy Aging and Age-Friendly Communities by including the VA.
The VA must issue or update directives of the VHA for facilities and providers relating to safe patient handling and mobility policies.
Additionally, the VA must determine the feasibility and advisability of implementing a pilot program to provide home improvements and structural alterations to prevent falls for veterans who are eligible for such services under VA laws.
Finally, the bill requires the VA to ensure certain veterans receive a falls risk assessment from a licensed physical therapist or occupational therapist.
