Celebrated every November, National Family Caregivers Month offers not only a time to honor those who care for our veterans, but to reflect on the progress made to provide the support they need … and the work that still lies ahead.

The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act marked a significant milestone in veteran and caregiver support. Signed into law Jan. 2, the Dole Act expands access to home and community-based services, strengthens VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC), and launches pilot programs to address workforce shortages in home care.

These reforms will help veterans remain in their homes and communities, and will provide caregivers with better training, mental health support, and recognition for their vital role. MOAA continues to work closely with the VA and other stakeholders to ensure these provisions are implemented quickly and effectively.

[RELATED: How MOAA Will Continue Fighting for Combat-Injured Veterans]

Legislative Momentum

To build on the Dole Act’s foundation, MOAA supports the Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement (3R) Act (H.R. 2148/S. 879) — bipartisan legislation designed to help eligible caregivers after their formal caregiving role ends.

[TAKE ACTION: Ask Your Lawmakers to Support Veteran Caregivers]

The bill covers a range of issues critical to that transition:

• Health Care. Extend coverage (up to 180 days) for caregivers transitioning out of the PCAFC.
• Financial Assistance. Offer up to $1,000 for renewing professional licenses or certifications, plus access to VA training modules for continuing education credits.
• Employment Opportunities. Expand access to federal job placement and career development programs, and study employment barriers and incentives for hiring former caregivers.
• Retirement Options. Provide retirement planning services and study the feasibility of creating savings options tailored to caregivers who sacrificed long-term financial security.
• Additional Support. Deliver bereavement counseling and emotional support following the death of the veteran they cared for.

These measures acknowledge caregiving can be a full-time responsibility – one that interrupts careers and threatens financial security. The bill provides caregivers with resources to rebuild their lives, whether following the loss of a loved one or after leaving the PCAFC program. It reflects our nation’s commitment to honor their sacrifices and recognize the essential role they play in the health, well-being, and recovery of our veterans.

Funding and Collaboration

Full implementation of the Dole Act and advancement of caregiver legislation depend on stable VA funding and continued collaboration between Congress, the VA, and advocacy organizations like MOAA.

We urge lawmakers to prioritize VA appropriations and pass the 3R Act so caregivers receive the long-term resources and recognition they’ve earned; join that mission by sending a message through MOAA’s Legislative Action Center today.