North Michigan News

Legislation introduced by Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI) and Julia Brownley (D-CA) has passed the House with broad bipartisan support. The bill, known as H.R. 542, the "Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act of 2023," aims to improve and expand the VA Home and Community-Based Services program, providing better long-term care options for veterans.

The bill specifically targets older veterans, ensuring that they have access to long-term care options that meet their specific needs and desires. Representative Bergman emphasized the preference for home care among many veterans, stating, "As studies show and as many of the older veterans throughout our nation will attest, care in home settings is often preferable to care in a clinical facility." He further highlighted the importance of expanding access, options, and programs for disabled and elderly veterans living in rural and remote communities.

By enhancing the non-institutional long-term care services provided by the VA, the bill aims to extend the option of staying in their homes for treatment to more aging and disabled veterans. This would reserve institutional care for those who truly need intensive, round-the-clock assistance and services. The goal is to address shortages and waitlists that arise from limited admissions at long-term care facilities.

This legislation marks a significant victory for our nation's veterans, providing them with the opportunity to receive care in the comfort of their own homes. The bipartisan support for the bill demonstrates the commitment of lawmakers to prioritize the well-being and needs of our veterans.

For more information on the bill, the full text can be accessed [here](link to the full text of the bill).

To learn more, click on this link: https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1152