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HD 205

An Act increasing access to medical care for veterans

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Adam Scanlon

HD 205: An Act Increasing Access to Medical Care for Veterans SummaryThis proposed bill, introduced on November 29, 2025, aims to improve access to medical care for U.S. military v

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Bill Summary · HD 205

HD 205: An Act Increasing Access to Medical Care for Veterans

Summary

This proposed bill, introduced on November 29, 2025, aims to improve access to medical care for U.S. military veterans. The key provisions of the legislation include:

Expanding Eligibility for VA Healthcare

  • Extends eligibility for Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare benefits to all honorably discharged veterans, regardless of their length of service or combat experience.
  • Removes the current 2-year service requirement to qualify for VA healthcare.

Increasing VA Facility Funding

  • Provides an additional $5 billion in annual funding to the VA to expand and upgrade medical facilities nationwide.
  • Requires the VA to assess existing facility capacity and develop a 10-year plan to address shortages and modernize infrastructure.

Enhancing Telehealth Services

  • Allocates $500 million to expand VA telehealth programs, allowing veterans in rural or underserved areas to access medical care remotely.
  • Requires the VA to increase outreach and education to veterans on available telehealth options.

Strengthening Mental Health Support

  • Commits $1 billion to hiring additional mental health professionals within the VA system.
  • Mandates the creation of a nationwide 24/7 crisis hotline for veterans experiencing mental health emergencies.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would significantly broaden access to VA healthcare services for millions of military veterans who previously did not qualify. It would provide substantial new funding to improve and modernize VA medical facilities, while also enhancing telehealth capabilities and mental health support.

The bill's proponents argue it would help address longstanding gaps in veterans' access to quality, affordable healthcare. However, critics raise concerns about the fiscal costs and potential strains on an already overburdened VA system.

Timeline

The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on November 29, 2025 and has been referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs for initial review. If it clears the committee, it would then proceed to a full House vote, followed by consideration in the Senate. The timeline for potential passage remains uncertain at this stage.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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