Heather Ansley
The VetsFirst Team
The U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate have passed the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010 (S. 1963), which includes critical supports for caregivers of veterans with disabilities. VetsFirst has advocated for the passage of this legislation and is hopeful the President will quickly sign the compromise bill.
As urged by VetsFirst, the legislation includes at least some supports for caregivers of veterans from all eras. Caregivers for eligible veterans of all eras will have access to education sessions, support services, counseling, mental health services and respite care. VetsFirst believes that providing these tools to caregivers will ensure that veterans receive quality supports and services in their homes and communities.
The legislation also provides certain caregivers of OEF/OIF veterans who have a serious injury, such as a traumatic brain injury, with a monthly stipend and access to medical care.
Veterans have the right to receive their services and supports in the least restrictive environment. Most people with disabilities want to live in their homes and have the opportunity to be a part of their communities. Although funding services for caregivers requires an upfront investment, the long-term gains that result from assisting veterans with disabilities in their efforts to reintegrate into their communities are significant.
In addition to the new caregiver benefits, the legislation also seeks to expand and improve care for women veterans who seek care through the VA. The legislation also improves access to mental health services and eliminates the ability of the VA to demand copayments from veterans who have catastrophic disabilities.
VetsFirst will continue to advocate for legislation that ensures that veterans from all eras, their families and dependents have access to vital services and supports.