HR 8371: Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act

On May 14, 2024, Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) introduced H.R. 8371: Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act with bipartisan support from the House and Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs leaders Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL), Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT), and Ranking Member Jerry Moran (R-KS). This legislation is a comprehensive bipartisan package of bills designed to expand vital support for veterans and their caregivers by increasing access to home and community-based care, while also reviewing the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) caregiver and long-term care programs.

The Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act (S.141/H.R.542) was incorporated into this broader legislative package, combining multiple initiatives aimed at enhancing veterans’ healthcare and benefits. The ALS Network (formerly ALS Golden West) is grateful for the co-sponsorship from California Representatives Ken Calvert, Mike Garcia, David Valadao, and Michelle Steel, who have joined a total of 50 co-sponsors supporting H.R. 8371.

The VA has recognized amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) as a presumptive service-connected disease. As ALS progresses, veterans face an increased need for assistance and specialized care. This bill addresses these critical needs by enhancing access to home care and expanding caregiver support programs within the VA.

The bill will increase the expenditure cap for noninstitutional care alternative programs from 65% to 100% of nursing home care costs. However, for veterans with conditions such as ALS and spinal cord injuries, the VA may exceed this limit if it is in the best interest of the veteran.

Among other requirements, the VA must:

• Seek to enter into an agreement with the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in certain areas to furnish noninstitutional alternatives to nursing home care.
• Expands veterans access to home and community-based alternative care programs at all VA medical facilities, as well as to Native veterans and veterans living in U.S. territories.
• Implement a pilot program to provide homemaker and home health aide services to veterans who reside in communities with a shortage of home health aides.
• Establish a supportive transition process for veterans and caregivers who are either discharged from or found ineligible for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.
• Provide specified support and benefits to caregivers of certain disabled veterans.
• Review program staffing levels, resource requirements, accessibility, and other factors administered through the Office of Geriatric and Extended Care to ensure these programs are adequately meeting the needs of veterans and their caregivers.

H.R. 8371 also extends certain loan fee rates through September 30, 2024, under the VA's home loan program.

Update: H.R. 8371 passed the House on November 18, 2024, with bipartisan support in a 389-9 vote. The bill now heads to the Senate, and, if approved, will require the President's signature to become law.

The ALS Network endorses this legislation and expresses gratitude to our legislators and passionate ALS advocates who collaborate at all levels - local, state, and federal - to improve awareness and resources for people affected by ALS. This is ALS advocacy in action!