S. 3033 · In committee · Armed Forces and National Security

Improving Access to Care for Rural Veterans Act

What it does

Requires each Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility to enter into a partnership with a rural medical facility by not later than three years after enactment or receive a waiver.
Permits partnerships to include telehealth, co-location, leasing of space or equipment, training, care coordination, emergency services, transportation, or other services as determined appropriate.
Authorizes the Secretary to waive the partnership requirement for up to five years if the Secretary notifies Congress 48 hours before the waiver takes effect.
Directs the Secretary to provide Congress a briefing within 180 days on implementation plans, timeline, responsible officials, oversight mechanisms, and standardized waiver forms and criteria.

Mar 18, 2026: Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.

Committee: Senate Veterans' Affairs