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Rural Veterans Transportation to Care Act
6/18/2025, 4:00 AM
Summary of Bill S 784
Specifically, the legislation proposes expanding the existing grant program of the VA to include a wider range of transportation options for veterans in highly rural areas. This could involve funding for services such as shuttle programs, ridesharing initiatives, or partnerships with local transportation providers. By increasing the flexibility and scope of the grant program, the bill aims to improve the accessibility and convenience of transportation for veterans in these underserved areas.
In addition to expanding the grant program, the bill also includes provisions for the modification and improvement of existing transportation services for veterans. This could involve enhancing coordination between different transportation providers, streamlining the application process for veterans seeking transportation assistance, or implementing new technologies to optimize transportation routes and schedules. Overall, Bill 119 s 784 is designed to address the unique transportation needs of veterans in highly rural areas, ensuring they have access to reliable and efficient transportation options. By providing innovative solutions and expanding the grant program of the VA, the legislation aims to improve the quality of life for veterans living in remote regions and enhance their ability to access essential services and support.
Congressional Summary of S 784
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.
