Sponsors (4)
Expands who may use Department of Veterans Affairs temporary lodging (for example, Fisher Houses) on a space-available basis by adding two new eligible groups, requiring VA to set criteria for space-available access, and adding definitions for “covered beneficiary” and “Fisher house.” The change clarifies cross-references and updates existing entitlement language but does not itself appropriate new funds.
Amends section 1708 of title 38 by replacing the phrase “in connection with” and the remainder of that sentence in subsection (a) with “in accordance with this section.”
Adds subsection (b)(3): On a space-available basis, a covered beneficiary who must travel a significant distance to receive care or services at a non-Department facility may use temporary lodging.
Adds subsection (b)(4): On a space-available basis, a member of the family of a covered beneficiary and others who accompany that covered beneficiary and provide the equivalent of familial support may use temporary lodging.
Strikes existing subsection (c) and redesignates former subsections (d) and (e) as subsections (c) and (d), respectively.
Makes multiple textual edits in the redesignated subsection (d): (A) in paragraph (2), replaces the reference “subsection (d)” with “subsection (c)”; (B) in paragraph (3), replaces “under subsection (b)(2)” with “or a covered beneficiary under subsection (b)”; (C) in paragraph (4), strikes text after the semicolon; (D) redesignates paragraph (5) as paragraph (6); and (E) inserts a new paragraph (5) after paragraph (4) to require establishing criteria for space-available access under new subsections (b)(3) and (b)(4).
Primary affected groups are veterans and their families/caregivers who seek short-term lodging while receiving VA care. The change may allow additional people (the two newly added groups) to use VA temporary lodging on a space-available basis, improving access and clarity about who can stay in Fisher Houses and similar facilities. VA will need to develop, publish, and use criteria to manage demand, which could change operational procedures for lodging managers (scheduling, prioritization, and documentation). Because the change does not appropriate funds or expand guaranteed entitlements, it does not itself provide funding for more beds — increased utilization could create administrative strain or highlight a need for expanded capacity in some locations. Overall effects are administrative and access-focused rather than budgetary, unless future demand drives requests for additional resources.
Last progress June 4, 2025 (8 months ago)
Introduced on June 4, 2025 by Mariannette Miller-Meeks
Referred to the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs.