H.R. 6017: Veterans Bill of Rights Act

This bill, known as the Veterans Bill of Rights Act, aims to enhance the rights and benefits available to veterans by establishing a set of rights that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) must uphold. Below are the key provisions outlined in the bill:

Veterans Bill of Rights

The bill mandates the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to:

• Provide each veteran with both a physical and electronic copy of a new Veterans Bill of Rights.
• Publish and keep this Bill of Rights accessible on the VA’s website and in all VA facilities.

Rights and Benefits

The Veterans Bill of Rights informs veterans of their entitlements under the laws managed by the VA, which include the following:

• Fair Treatment: Veterans are entitled to fair treatment and respect in all interactions within the VA.
• Informed of Benefits: Veterans will be informed about all programs and benefits they qualify for at the time of discharge, including an annual updated handbook that details healthcare, education, and housing options.
• Privacy: The bill underlines veterans' rights to have their personal data and records safeguarded.
• Access to Healthcare: Veterans have the right to timely access to quality healthcare through the VA and other community providers.
• Mental Health and Family Support: There is a specified access to mental health services and support for veterans' families, recognizing the psychological effects of military service.
• Employment and Housing Assistance: Transitioning veterans are entitled to job training, career counseling, and support for securing affordable housing.
• Accessibility: Services and facilities must be accessible without barriers, with provisions for reasonable accommodations.
• Involvement in Care Decisions: Veterans should be included in decisions regarding their treatment and benefits.
• Transparency in Benefits Processing: The process for claims and benefits must be transparent, with clear timelines and requirements communicated to veterans.
• Timely Appeals Process: Veterans have the right to appeal denied claims in a fair and expedient manner, with updates provided on their appeal status.
• Proactive Communication: The VA will need to inform veterans in a timely manner about any changes or updates to their benefits.

Complaint Reporting and Response

Additionally, the Secretary must maintain:

• A toll-free hotline and a website for veterans to file complaints regarding adherence to the Bill of Rights.
• A response to any complaint within 30 days.

Annual Reporting

Each year, the Secretary is required to submit a report to Congress detailing:

• The number and nature of complaints received.
• The response times and resolution rates for complaints.
• Actions taken as a result of the complaints.
• Processing times for benefits claims and appeals.
• Information about community care referrals.
• Recommendations for legislative or administrative improvements.

Implementation Timeline

The bill requires that the provisions outlined be implemented within six months following its enactment.

Relevant Companies

• VALE: As a company that works with veterans in providing services and assistance, it may see changes in demand based on new veteran rights and benefits outlined in the bill.
• UNH: UnitedHealth Group might be affected, as it deals with health insurance and could need to adjust its offerings to align with the new healthcare access rights established for veterans.