Washington, D.C. —- U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington), voted yesterday to support the well-being and quality care of America’s veterans by helping to pass the “Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act”.
The bill passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 419-0. The legislation supports the growing number of women veterans and will increase access to mental health services for returning soldiers. Etheridge is a veteran of the United States Army.
“As a veteran myself, I strongly support making sure Congress honors its commitments to our veterans,” Etheridge said, “Our support system should work for all those who sacrifice for our country and this bill improves health care for female veterans who have become an even more important part of our all-volunteer force. It also recognizes that mental health is an important part of overall health for our veterans.”
The bill expands and improves VA health care services for military women. It also provides up to seven days of care for newborn children of women veterans, and enhances sexual trauma treatment for women at the VA.
Also included in the bill were provisions to:
“We’ve made historic investments to improve veterans health care, raise veterans’ salaries and help smooth their transition back from the battlefield,” said Etheridge. “I will continue to work to honor the service and sacrifices of America’s heroes.”
The bill is supported by the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the National Military Family Association.