H.R. 5539

119th CONGRESS 1st Session

To amend title 38, United States Code, to assign the highest priority status for hospital care and medical services provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs to veterans who are former prisoners of war.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES · September 19, 2025 · Sponsor: Mr. Walberg · Committee: Committee on Veterans' Affairs

Table of contents

• H.R. 5539
  • SEC. 1. Short title
  • SEC. 2. Highest priority status for enrollment of former prisoners of war in health care system of Department of Veterans Affairs

SEC. 1. Short title

• This Act may be cited as the POW Priority Care Act of 2025.

SEC. 2. Highest priority status for enrollment of former prisoners of war in health care system of Department of Veterans Affairs

• (a) Enrollment
  • Section 1705(a) of title 38, United States Code, is amended—
    • in paragraph (1)—
      • by striking and veteransand inserting , veterans; and
      • by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and
    • in paragraph (3), by striking .
• (b) Extended care services
  • Section 1710B(c)(2)(D) of such title is amended by inserting before .
• (c) Applicability
  • The amendments made by this section shall apply with respect to veterans who are former prisoners of war before, on, or after the date of the enactment of this Act.