Caring for Veterans and Strengthening National Security Act

The Caring for Veterans and Strengthening National Security Act, which passed the Senate, is now being considered by the House. This bipartisan legislation would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide specific health care services to U.S. veterans living in three Pacific island nations: Palau, Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands. These nations are known as the Freely Associated States and have some of the highest per-capita military enlistment rates in the country.

The bill would mandate that the VA provide three key services to veterans in these locations within one year of enactment. First, it would establish telehealth benefits, allowing veterans to receive medical consultations remotely without traveling long distances. Second, it would provide mail-order pharmacy services so veterans can receive prescription medications at home. Third, it would require the VA to reimburse beneficiary travel expenses, helping veterans cover transportation costs for necessary medical care.

Proponents argue the legislation addresses a critical gap in veteran support. While the 2024 Compact of Free Association Amendments Act authorized the VA to provide these services, the VA has not yet implemented them. Veterans in these island nations currently face significant barriers to accessing earned health care benefits, including high travel costs and limited local medical resources. The bill would ensure these veterans receive the same care as veterans living in the United States.