Miller-Meeks Introduces Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (IA-01), a 24-year U.S. Army veteran and physician, introduced the Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act in the House of Representatives. This critical legislation ensures veterans are clearly and consistently informed of their rights when seeking care and benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

“Our veterans have worn the uniform, defended our freedoms, and upheld our Constitution. They should never be left in the dark when it comes to the benefits and care they have rightfully earned,” said Representative Miller-Meeks. “Too often, I hear from Iowa veterans who are frustrated and confused by the VA’s complex bureaucracy. This bill cuts through that confusion, ensuring veterans are treated with dignity, and given clear, accurate information about their rights and available services.”

Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) is leading the Senate companion legislation, joined by Senators Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.).

“Navigating complex statutes, regulations, and internal policies can be confusing, leaving veterans unsure of what to expect or what questions to ask about the resources available to them,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act would ensure veterans are clearly informed of their existing rights regarding VA health care, benefits, and services.”

“As a combat veteran, I’m proud to help establish the Veterans’ Bill of Rights to deliver those who proudly served our country in uniform the information, support, and care they need to live a healthy, successful life,” said Senator Sheehy. “Veterans deserve to know exactly what benefits and services are available and how to access them when they return home, and this bill will empower veterans by increasing transparency, streamlining bureaucracy, and holding the VA accountable to its core mission of serving veterans.”

“Veterans shouldn’t have to wade through red tape just to understand the rights they’ve already earned through their service,” said Senator Tillis. “The Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act makes those rights clear and consistent across the VA, so veterans know what to expect and can focus on getting the care and benefits they deserve.”

“Alabama is home to more than 400,000 veterans, and I always hear from them about how tough it is to navigate bureaucratic VA processes,” said Senator Tuberville. “As Alabama’s voice on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I want to do everything I can to make it easier for our veterans. I’m proud to join Senator Blackburn in introducing the Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act to ensure veterans are fully aware of the benefits and services available to them by law. I’ll continue fighting to create a more transparent VA process for our veterans and keep the VA focused on its core mission of serving America’s heroes.”

Background

• Veterans’ benefits and health care protections are already established throughout federal law, but many veterans report difficulty understanding what rights and options are available to them when interacting with the VA.
• Information is often fragmented across statutes, regulations, and internal policies, leaving veterans unsure what to expect or what questions to ask during appointments, claims processing, or appeals.
• The Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act directs the VA to be more explicit, consistent, and transparent in informing veterans of the rights they already have under current law.

THE VETERANS’ BILL OF RIGHTS ACT

The Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act would require the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure veterans are clearly informed of their existing rights regarding VA-administered health care, benefits, and services, including:

• Access to VA or VA-authorized providers, consistent with eligibility under existing law;
• Courtesy, dignity, and respect in all interactions with VA;
• Clear, complete information about treatment options and informed consent;
• Information on benefits, programs, and services for which the veteran may be eligible;
• Ability to apply for benefits at any time with clear eligibility explanations;
• Ability to seek care or raise concerns without retaliation or adverse action;
• Protection of personal information and medical records under existing law;
• Complaint filing with timely investigation and resolution;
• Transparent, written communication on claims, benefits, and appeals;
• Access to appeals and fair hearings under existing processes.

This legislation would also require the VA to integrate this information into patient-facing materials, employee training, and to prominently display it at VA facilities and online.

Click here for bill text.

Endorsements

The Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act is endorsed by Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS), Special Operations Association of America (SOAA), Veteran Action, and Concerned Veterans for America (CVA):  

“Our veterans fulfilled their duty to America. Now America must fulfill its duty to them. Rep. Miller-Meeks is a true champion for America's veterans. The Veterans' Bill of Rights ensures that every veteran receives the respect, dignity, and care they have earned,” said Mark Lucas, Founder & President, Veteran Action.

“Veterans have served our nation, and they deserve the same timely access to health care, mental health support, housing, education, and job opportunities as any other American. The Veterans’ Bill of Rights Act ensures these essential services are delivered transparently, efficiently, and without unnecessary bureaucratic barriers. By codifying these rights and modernizing VA services, we empower veterans to continue serving their communities long after their military service ends. CVA strongly supports this legislation,” said John Vick, Executive Director, Concerned Veterans for America.

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