Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act
Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act
Plain Language Summary
# Summary of HR 2148: Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act **What the bill does:** This legislation would expand benefits and support for family members who serve as caregivers for veterans through the VA's existing Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers program. The main changes include extending health insurance coverage for family caregivers for up to 180 days after they stop serving as caregivers, providing bereavement counseling when the veteran they care for passes away, and offering retirement planning services. The VA would also study whether to create a formal retirement plan or savings account specifically for veteran caregivers. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily benefits family members—such as spouses, adult children, or other relatives—who care for eligible veterans. These caregivers often leave their own jobs or careers to provide full-time care and may face financial vulnerability when their caregiving role ends.
The bill does not apply to caregivers who were removed from the program for fraud, abuse, or mistreatment, or those already covered by Medicare. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. It was introduced by Representative Joseph D. Morelle (D-NY) in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement ActThis bill expands support and assistance provided to family caregivers under the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).First, the bill extends the period of medical care coverage for primary family caregivers to include the 180-day period following the removal of their designation as a caregiver under the program, unless such individuals (1) were dismissed from the program for fraud, abuse, or mistreatment; or (2) are entitled to Medicare.Next, the VA must provide bereavement counseling and support to family caregivers following the death of a veteran receiving care under the program. The VA must also provide retirement planning services to primary family caregivers and study the feasibility and advisability of establishing a retirement plan or retirement savings for caregivers.Further, unless they were discharged for fraud, abuse, or mistreatment, the VA must provide to primary family caregivers (1) assistance returning to the workforce upon discharge or dismissal from the program, (2) support in transitioning from caregiving, and (3) specified employment assistance during their tenure as a caregiver and for the following 180-days.The VA must partner with the Department of Labor to study and report on the feasibility and advisability of conducting a program to assist primary caregivers in returning to the workforce.Finally, the Government Accountability Office must report on the VA’s efforts supporting family caregivers in transitioning from caregiving.
Latest Action
Ordered to be Reported in the Nature of a Substitute (Amended) by Voice Vote.