Pappas Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Support Disabled Veterans

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee (HVAC), and Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) introduced the Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act. This bipartisan legislation would increase the amount of funding available to disabled veterans for improvements and structural alterations provided to them by the Department of Veteran Affairs for home improvements related to their disability.

“Veterans who selflessly and bravely served our country deserve the utmost respect and we must ensure they have the benefits they are owed and can live their lives to the fullest after the completion of their service, especially those who were injured or disabled during their service,” said Congressman Pappas. “This bipartisan legislation will increase the amount of funding for VA grants for disabled veterans to make necessary modifications to their homes to fit their needs, including wheelchair ramps, structural changes, medical equipment, and more. I’m pleased to introduce this important bipartisan bill with Congressman Bacon, and I’ll continue working to improve VA benefits and services for veterans.”

"These veterans made incredible sacrifices for our country, and bear those burdens every day,” said Congressman Bacon. “Ensuring that they are comfortable in their own homes and able to live as independently as they want to be is a part of our promise to care for them.”

Eligible projects under this funding include adaptations for wheelchairs, medical equipment, and improving accessibility throughout the veteran’s home through the addition of ramps or railings. Funding cannot be used for home improvement projects that are not required by medical necessity. Due to inflation, the cost of completing these modifications has risen, and this bill would adjust the amount to account for inflation.