McMorris Rodgers Bill to Improve Access to Veteran Services Passes House

Washington, D.C. – Last week, the House of Representatives passed Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers’ (WA-05) Commitment to Veteran Support and Outreach (CVSO) Act, H.R. 4601. This bipartisan legislation authorizes federal funding for county Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) who are often the best resource to help veterans and their families understand resources at their disposal, file benefit claims, and represent veterans in VA hearings.

“Veterans who served in our nation’s military understand that no man or woman should ever be left behind on the battlefield. It’s our job as Americans to ensure the same rule applies when they come home,” said Rodgers. “Unfortunately, too many veterans tell me they feel like they’ve slipped through the cracks, like they don’t know where to turn. That’s where the CVSO Act comes in. Our bipartisan bill bridges the all-too-common gap between veterans in rural communities and the critical resources they’ve earned – many of which can change and save lives. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House for recognizing the importance of this bill and moving it one step closer to becoming law.”

Cathy introduced this legislation with Congressmen Mike Levin (CA-49), Matt Rosendale (MT-AL), and Tim Ryan (OH-13) in July 2021. Companion legislation introduced by Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) is awaiting Senate consideration.

NOTE: The CVSO Act will authorize $50 million annually for five years for competitive grants to expand the work of CVSOs or comparable entities. VA will award grants to states in order to improve outreach to veterans, assist in the development and submission of claims on behalf of veterans, hire additional CVSOs, and train CVSOs for VA accreditation. To receive funds, a state must submit an application, including a detailed plan for the use of these funds, how they will meet underserved veterans’ needs, and other information.

CLICK HERE to read the bill.

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