On March 21, the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee approved two bills aimed at improving health care for veterans. One bill (H.R. 811), sponsored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), would authorize $250 million in FY2002 and $300 million in FY2003 for the improvement and renovation of VA medical centers. The bill delineates a number of projects that the Secretary should consider a priority, including improving privacy and accommodations for women veterans. Several General Accounting Office reports have cited the lack of privacy at VA hospitals as a major concern of women veterans.
The other bill (H.R. 801), also sponsored by Rep. Smith, would extend coverage under the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance to spouses and children of a servicemember. Both bills were approved by voice vote.
On March 27, both bills will be considered under suspension of the rules, an expedited floor procedure that prohibits amendments.
