Congress has officially departed for its August recess, which traditionally is a 5+ week-long break from legislative activity that allows members of the House and Senate to reconnect with their constituents, spend time with family, and travel independently or as part of congressional delegations on diplomatic or fact-finding efforts. Much of the time, they will be working out of their state and local offices. During the recess, we are running a number of campaigns on key legislative priorities through PVAction Force. This is the time when action is needed to ensure support for issues important to Paralyzed Veterans and their families.

One of the key issues demanding our attention is the Justice for ALS Veterans Act, S. 1590/H.R. 3790. This legislation aims to provide surviving spouses of veterans who died of service-connected ALS with additional compensation. By advocating for this legislation, we can have a significant impact on the lives of those affected by this devastating disease. 

Additionally, let us not forget about the Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act, S. 141/H.R. 542. In the final days before August recess, the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee marked up this top PVA priority. Action on H.R. 542 had been delayed since the last Congress because of a very high price tag placed on it by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) concerning the cap on VA-purchased home care. This bill seeks to improve access to quality home care services for our veterans and their families, and we have a fighting chance to get the legislation passed. It is imperative that we stand up and fight for those who have bravely served our country. 

Furthermore, let us not overlook the FAA Reauthorization. The House and Senate versions of the reauthorization include important provisions for passengers with disabilities, including improved training requirements and required further study into in-cabin wheelchair restraints. The House's bill also includes elements of the PVA-supported Air Carrier Access Amendments Act (ACAAA) (H.R. 1267). We support adding amendments based on the ACAAA (S. 545) to the Senate bill that would improve the disability-related complaint process and improve disability access standards.

Last, but certainly not least, we need action on the Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act, H.R. 2818. This legislation aims to empower disabled veterans by providing them with increased mobility options through home modifications. The VA's Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grant has not been adjusted since 2010. HISA needs rates that are raised annually to offset the associated costs of rising prices. 

Now is the time to make our voices heard! Together, let's ensure that these critical bills receive the attention they deserve during this recess period, so that we can keep pushing access forward.