Senate Veterans Affairs Chair Jerry Moran plans to enhance care access and mental health support for veterans while avoiding political conflicts.
Moran pointed out that community care often divides opinions between Republicans and Democrats, but he thinks it shouldn’t. He sees it as just another benefit for veterans that can be improved.
He’s not trying to threaten the VA system; instead, he wants to enhance it. Moran has been a strong advocate for veterans’ access to community care, which lets them seek private medical help when VA services fall short.
This issue is set to be a big deal this year, especially with House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost already pushing for improvements to community care. However, it might spark some conflict, as some Democrats worry that GOP leaders are trying to undermine the VA.
Currently, about 40% of VA appointments are handled by outside doctors, costing over $24 billion. Moran reassured that he’s not looking to cut VA funding but wants to ensure veterans in rural areas have more options for care.
He believes the VA hasn’t done enough to inform veterans about their care options. Moran plans to hold hearings and introduce legislation to tackle community care, although budget issues might take priority at first.
The VA has requested an additional $6.6 billion for fiscal 2025 to address shortfalls, but some Republicans, including Moran, have raised concerns about the department’s budgeting practices.
Moran also wants to focus on mental health care for veterans and how benefits are distributed, especially after the 2022 PACT Act expanded awards significantly.
His first hearing as chair is coming up soon, where the committee will consider the nomination of Doug Collins for VA secretary. Sen. Richard Blumenthal will be the ranking member, and there are five new members joining the committee.
