Ensuring veterans receive equitable access to high-quality care and support services remains a central focus of MOAA’s engagement with Congress and the VA. This work includes advancing policies that address improving access to care and reducing barriers faced by veterans with disabilities, from facility access to equipment usability and other support services.

That is why MOAA supports the Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee Act. Introduced in the Senate by Sens. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and in the House by Reps. David Valadao (R-Calif.) and Morgan McGarvey (D-Ky.), this legislation would establish an independent advisory body focused on improving accessibility and disability-related accommodations for veterans within the VA. It reflects a critical step forward in ensuring all veterans can access the benefits, services, and programs they need.

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Persistent Barriers to Accessibility

While the VA has made progress in addressing the needs of veterans with disabilities, significant challenges remain in ensuring consistent, reliable access to VA facilities, medical equipment, and other support services. Veterans with various impairments continue to encounter barriers that limit their ability to receive timely, equitable care.

Investigators found some type of accessibility, safety, or cleanliness deficiency in 85% of medical disability exam facilities – 114 of 135 – visited as part of a 2024 report from the VA Office of Inspector General. VA’s Medical Disability Examination Office relied on vendors to self-certify compliance without sufficient oversight, according to the report, a procedure which contributed to persistent issues with facility conditions.

What the Legislation Would Do

As structured by the pending legislation, the Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee would be charged with:

• Assessing access barriers across VA programs and services.
• Recommending improvements to facilities, medical equipment, information systems, and service delivery.
• Advising on policies that enhance usability and reduce obstacles for veterans with disabilities.
• Reporting annually to the VA secretary and to Congress on findings, priorities, and progress.

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The committee would include veterans with disabilities, medical and rehabilitation experts, and other stakeholders with relevant experience. This structure will help ensure practical, veteran-centered guidance is consistently incorporated into VA planning and operations.

Next Steps for Lawmakers

Congress should pass the Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee Act without further delay – the House version of the bill (H.R. 1147) passed May 19, and the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee held a May 21 hearing on that chamber’s version (S. 1383). The legislation provides dedicated oversight and recommendations aimed at improving accessibility across the VA, which will help ensure all veterans can navigate and benefit from the services they have earned.

To learn more about MOAA’s other advocacy efforts on behalf of the uniformed services and veteran communities, check out our Legislative Action Center and advocacy news page.