On January 2, 2025, President Biden signed the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act (S.141) into law, marking a monumental step forward in supporting caregivers who dedicate their lives to America’s Veterans. This bipartisan legislation, named after former Senator Elizabeth Dole in recognition of her advocacy for caregivers, represents a crucial expansion of benefits and services for those who care for Veterans with service-related injuries or illnesses.
The act focuses on addressing gaps in caregiver support, particularly for those looking after Veterans requiring intensive care at home. The legislation was spearheaded by lawmakers from both parties, showcasing the broad consensus around the importance of improving caregiver support and home-based care options for Veterans.
The House of Representatives passed the bill in December 2024 by an overwhelming vote of 382-31, reflecting strong bipartisan support for improving the lives of Veterans and their families. The legislation builds on existing programs by expanding access to services, increasing funding, and simplifying access to critical resources. Some of the key provisions of the Dole Act include:
- Expanded funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Home-Based Community Services (HCBS), ensuring more Veterans can receive care in the comfort of their homes. This provision helps reduce the need for institutional care, which can be costly and emotionally challenging for families.
- Broadened eligibility for VA Caregiver Support Programs – Previously, only Veterans injured after 9/11 were eligible for caregiver support through the VA. The new legislation extends this eligibility to caregivers of Veterans from all eras, ensuring fairness and inclusivity.
- Enhanced respite care options recognize the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, offering caregivers essential breaks to rest and recharge.
- Streamlined access to resources for VA caregiver programs, which addresses long-standing administrative hurdles and ensures timely delivery of benefits.
- Increased resources allocated to bolster caregiver services in rural areas, where access to healthcare and support services has traditionally been limited.
- Expanded access to telehealth options to reduce barriers to care, particularly in underserved areas, making it easier for Veterans and caregivers to access essential services remotely.
We’re honored to collaborate with coalitions of Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs), lawmakers, and the Administration to drive meaningful change for SOF Veterans and their families. The passage of this legislation underscores the power of collective action to ensure that SOF Veterans and those who care for them receive the support and protections they deserve, safeguarding their well-being now and into the future.
