Press Release: Veteran Action Applauds Sen. Blackburn and Rep. Miller-Meeks for Introducing Veterans' Bill of Rights
Legislation establishes ten fundamental rights to protect veterans from VA bureaucracy and ensure access to earned benefits
Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) have introduced the Veterans' Bill of Rights, landmark legislation designed to codify fundamental protections for America’s veterans and hold the Department of Veterans Affairs accountable to those it serves.
The legislation comes amid growing concerns over systemic failures within the VA system during the Biden administration. Recent tragedies, including two veteran suicides at a single VA hospital in Texas, underscore the urgent need for reform. For too long, veterans have faced denial and delays when seeking the care and benefits they rightfully earned through their service.
“Our veterans fulfilled their duty to America. Now America must fulfill its duty to them,” said Mark Lucas, Founder & President of Veteran Action. “Senator Blackburn and Representative Miller-Meeks have proven themselves to be true champions for America's veterans. The Veterans' Bill of Rights ensures that every veteran receives the respect, dignity, and care they have earned.”
The Veterans' Bill of Rights establishes ten fundamental protections:
1. Access to VA or VA-Authorized Providers — The right to receive health care from the VA or, when eligible under federal law, from community providers authorized by the Department
2. Respect and Dignity — The right to be treated with courtesy, respect, and dignity in all interactions with VA personnel
3. Informed Consent — The right to receive clear, complete information about treatment options and to provide informed consent for care
4. Awareness of Benefits — The right to receive comprehensive, understandable information about benefits, programs, and services for which the veteran may be eligible
5. Access to Benefits — The right to apply for benefits at any time and to receive clear explanations regarding eligibility determinations
6. Health Care Without Retaliation — The right to seek care or raise concerns without fear of stigma, retaliation, or adverse action from the Department
7. Privacy — The right to the protection of personal information and medical records consistent with federal law
8. Right to Grievance Redress — The right to file complaints and to receive timely, thorough investigation and resolution of those complaints
9. Transparent Communication — The right to clear written notification regarding the status of claims, benefits, and appeals
10. Appeal and Fair Hearing — The right to appeal adverse decisions and to receive fair hearings within a reasonable time
The concept of protecting Americans from federal agency overreach has strong precedent. The IRS maintains a Taxpayer Bill of Rights, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the G.I. Bill of Rights after World War II, and states like Massachusetts have enacted their own Veterans' Bill of Rights. It's time for Congress to establish the same protections for our nation's veterans.
Veteran Action is calling on both chambers of Congress to pass this legislation without delay and for President Trump to sign it into law.
About Veteran Action: Veteran Action is a smash-mouth political organization advocating for America First policies that strengthen national security and provide unwavering support for our veterans.