Our veterans and their families have sacrificed so much to preserve our freedom, and as Americans, we have a solemn obligation to do all we can to help veterans when they return home from service. 

One area where we have fallen short is veteran homelessness. In the United States, those who served are at a much greater risk of homelessness with almost 4% of veterans living on the streets. We must do better, which is why I helped pass the HOME Act (H.R. 3848) to invest in long-term housing solutions that will get our veterans off of the streets and into the homes they deserve.

I also got to work on legislation to support our aging veterans. Right now, nearly 50% of the nine million veterans enrolled in VA health care are at least 65 years of age. That number is projected to grow into the future, which is why I helped pass the Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act (H.R. 542) to invest in community-based services that will go a long way in helping our veterans age comfortably and peacefully outside of a traditional nursing home. 

Finally, as we think about helping those who have served, I am concerned about how often caregivers are overlooked. Looking after a disabled or aging veteran is no easy task, and it often takes a serious toll on those who take it on. That’s why I helped pass the COPE Act (H.R. 3581) to make sure the selfless individuals who provide around-the-clock care for our veterans have access to the mental health support they need to do the job.

The good news is that this was a big week for veterans, but there’s still much more that needs to be done. I will continue working hard in Congress to roll out the red carpet for our veterans in Eastern Washington, and I look forward to keeping you updated on our progress.