Summary of HR 1364: Automotive Support Services to Improve Safe Transportation Act of 2025

Overview

Bill Number: HR 1364

Title: Automotive Support Services to Improve Safe Transportation Act of 2025 (ASSIST Act of 2025)

Introduced: February 14, 2025

Status: Received in the Senate; read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

Primary Sponsor: Rep. Tom Barrett (MI)

Cosponsors: Claudia Tenney, Susie Lee, Dan Crenshaw, Maggie Goodlander, David G. Valadao, Jason Crow

Related Bill: S 1726 (companion bill)

Purpose and Intent

The Automotive Support Services to Improve Safe Transportation Act of 2025 aims to enhance the accessibility of transportation for disabled veterans by clarifying and expanding the definition of "medical services" under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The bill seeks to ensure that veterans have access to necessary automobile adaptations that facilitate safe transportation.

Key Provisions

1. Clarification of Medical Services:

   • Amends 38 U.S.C. § 1701(6)(I) to explicitly include a broader range of medically necessary automobile adaptations for both drivers and passengers. This includes:
     • Ramp and kneeling systems
     • Raised doors and lowered floors
     • Raised roofs
     • Air conditioning
     • Mobility lifts (both occupied and unoccupied)
     • Accessibility modifications for ingress and egress
     • Wheelchair tiedowns
     • Adapted seating
   • The amendment aims to ensure that all necessary adaptations are covered, addressing previous omissions in the law.

2. Extension of Pension Payment Limits:

   • Extends the limits on pension payments for certain veterans, specifically changing the cap date from November 30, 2031, to September 30, 2032. This provision aims to provide additional financial support to veterans who may require it.

Impact

• Who is Affected: The bill primarily benefits disabled veterans who require modifications to their vehicles to ensure safe and accessible transportation. It also impacts their caregivers and families by facilitating better mobility options.
• Economic Opportunities: By improving transportation access, the bill aims to enhance the overall well-being and economic opportunities for disabled veterans, potentially aiding them in seeking employment and participating more fully in their communities.

Legislative Process and Timeline

• February 14, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
• March 11, 2025: Subcommittee hearings held; referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.
• April 9, 2025: Subcommittee consideration and mark-up session held; forwarded to the full committee.
• May 6, 2025: Committee consideration and mark-up session held.
• May 15, 2025: Reported (amended) by the Committee on Veterans' Affairs (H. Rept. 119-96).
• May 19, 2025: Passed in the House by voice vote and laid on the table for reconsideration.
• May 20, 2025: Received in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

Conclusion

The ASSIST Act of 2025 represents a significant step towards improving the quality of life for disabled veterans by ensuring they have access to necessary vehicle adaptations. By clarifying the VA's definition of medical services and extending pension payment limits, the bill aims to address the unique challenges faced by this population.