Miller-Meeks Introduces Legislation to Cut VA Red Tape and Put Military Families First

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), a 24-year Army veteran and member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, has introduced the Fisher House Availability Act, a bill to reverse a Biden-era rule that blocks military families from staying in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) lodging facilities when their loved ones receive non-VA care.

“Families shouldn’t be punished because their care comes from a military or civilian provider instead of the VA,” said Miller-Meeks. “As a veteran and doctor, I’ve seen how critical it is to keep loved ones close during treatment. This bill restores common sense, cuts red tape, and puts our servicemembers and their families first.”

Background:

For years, servicemembers and their families could access VA-owned Fisher Houses on a space-available basis, regardless of where care was provided. But in 2024, the VA changed course and began turning them away, even with more than 50% of rooms sitting empty.

The Fisher House Availability Act ensures that servicemembers and their families are eligible for VA lodging when space allows, whether they’re receiving care at a VA facility, a military hospital, or a civilian provider. The Fisher House Foundation, which built and donated these homes, supports the change.

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

For full bill text, click HERE.