Murphy Legislation to Extend Veterans Affairs Services Passes Congress

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement in response to the passage of his legislation, by a unanimous vote, to extend authorities of the Department of Veterans Affairs to continue providing essential services.

"I'm grateful my bill that extends the authorities of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to carry out critical services has been approved by Congress," said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. "Our veterans served this nation honorably and now it's our turn to serve them. Ensuring those who sacrificed so much for our freedom receive the benefits they deserve is one of my top priorities. I look forward to this bill being signed into law by the president."

The legislation extends three key authorities:

1. Allowing physicians and nurses who work for contractors that do veterans’ compensation and pension exams to practice across state lines. If this authority were to expire, these medical professionals would be required to be licensed in the state where the veteran lives or the exam will take place, resulting in increased wait times for veterans. 

2. Continuing the VA’s authority to restore veterans’ GI Bill benefits if they use them at an educational institution that closes or gets decertified from the GI Bill program.

3. Continuing the Veterans Health Administration’s emergency preparedness measures, including to protect staff and veterans during a public health emergency, chemical or biological attack, or other terrorist attack, provide mental health counseling, track pharmaceuticals, medical supplies and equipment, as well as participate in the National Disaster Medical System to provide aid to other government agencies and the public.