Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act
Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act
Plain Language Summary
# Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act - Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would increase the amount of money available through the VA's Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant program, which helps disabled veterans modify their homes for accessibility. The bill would raise the maximum grant from its current amount to $10,000 for veterans whose disabilities are service-connected (caused by military service) and $5,000 for those with non-service-connected disabilities. Examples of covered improvements include ramps, widened doorways, and other modifications that help veterans enter and navigate their homes independently. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects disabled veterans and active-duty service members who need home modifications for medical reasons.
A notable provision requires the VA to automatically adjust these maximum amounts each year based on inflation (using the Consumer Price Index), so the grants would keep pace with rising construction costs over time without requiring Congress to pass new legislation. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (HR 2245) is in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. It was introduced by Representative Don Bacon (R-Nebraska).
CRS Official Summary
Autonomy for Disabled Veterans ActThis bill increases the maximum amount authorized under the Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant program to $10,000 for veterans with a service-connected disability and $5,000 for those with disabilities that are not service-connected. The HISA grant program provides medically necessary improvements and structural alterations to a veteran's (or service member's) primary residence for specified purposes (e.g., allowing for entrance to their home).The bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to increase the maximum dollar amount of the grant in accordance with inflation as determined by the Consumer Price Index.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.