Caring for Veterans and Strengthening National Security Act
Summary
The "Caring for Veterans and Strengthening National Security Act" (S. 3436) focuses on improving services for veterans residing in Freely Associated States. It mandates the provision of telehealth and mail-order pharmacy benefits, as well as beneficiary travel payments. The Act also extends certain limits on pension payments and requires quarterly reports to Congress on implementation status and costs.
Expected Effects
This act will expand healthcare access for veterans in Freely Associated States through telehealth and mail-order pharmacy services. It ensures timely beneficiary travel payments and extends pension payment limits. Regular reporting to Congress aims to maintain accountability and transparency in the implementation process.
Potential Benefits
- Improved healthcare access for veterans in Freely Associated States.
- Mandatory telehealth and mail-order pharmacy benefits.
- Ensured beneficiary travel payments.
- Extension of pension payment limits, providing financial stability.
- Increased accountability through quarterly reports to Congress.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increased costs for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Administrative burden of implementing new telehealth and pharmacy programs.
- Possible delays in implementation due to logistical challenges in remote areas.
- The act does not address other potential issues veterans face.
- The extension of pension payment limits is relatively short (two months).
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "provide for the common defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by supporting veterans' healthcare needs. Congress's authority to legislate for the military and veterans' affairs is derived from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to raise and support armies and provide for a navy. The Act's provisions for healthcare and benefits are consistent with this constitutional authority.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).