Rural Veterans’ Improved Access to Benefits Act of 2026
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To President
- Became Law
Overview
This bill modifies laws related to temporary licensing for healthcare professionals who provide medical disability examinations to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Specifically, it expands the definition of eligible healthcare professionals to include those with current, unrestricted licenses and who are not barred from practicing. It also delays the sunset date of a previous amendment and requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to submit a report detailing the use of this authority, including the number of examinations conducted, associated costs, and any errors identified.
Key provisions
- Expands the definition of eligible healthcare professionals for VA disability examinations.
- Requires current and unrestricted licenses for these professionals.
- Delays the sunset date of a previous licensing amendment to September 30, 2031.
- Mandates a report from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on the use of this authority.
- The report will include data on examinations conducted, costs, and legal adequacy.
- The report will also detail the number of examinations conducted by location (state, etc.) and type of healthcare professional.
- The report will identify and address any erroneous examinations.
- Requires examinations to be conducted under a valid contract.
Who is affected
- Veterans
- Department of Veterans Affairs
- Healthcare Professionals (specifically physicians assistants, nurse practitioners, audiologists, and psychologists)
Bill text
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Sponsors
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1 on record
Primary sponsor
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